Mumbai schools to make maths ‘fun’ for classes 1-5

A government resolution issued on Saturday states that the department has decided to revamp teaching techniques in the subject after students’ dismal performance in baseline tests.

Concerned that students are faring poorly in math, the state school education department has asked schools to use tools such as mathematics mats, beads, scales, geo boards, and blocks to make the subject fun for Classes 1 to 5.

The state has suggested the use of 13 tools such as counting beads, mathematics mats, geo boards to learn geometry, scales and measuring tapes, notes and coins, measuring tapes, and scales.(HT file photo)

A government resolution issued on Saturday states that the department has decided to revamp teaching techniques in the subject after students’ dismal performance in baseline tests.

“On studying why students lag behind in math, we found that fear of math was the root cause,” said Nandkumar, principal secretary of the state education department, in the circular. Adding that this fear arose from lack of conceptual understanding, he said, “Teachers can’t continue teaching in the manner that they were taught. We need to change our teaching style and give more hands-on experience.”

The state has suggested the use of 13 tools such as counting beads, mathematics mats, geo boards to learn geometry, scales and measuring tapes, notes and coins, measuring tapes, scales, jodo blocks etc.

“Using the tools recommended by the department, will allow teachers to conduct various activities to demonstrate an application of a concept, which will aid students’ learning,” said Nandkumar.

Schools will have to purchase or create one set of these tools for every six students.

“The tools might cost about Rs4,000 to Rs5,000, but help students learn much better than they do today. Once parents realise and see the change, they might be willing to assist schools in buying the tools,” said Nandkumar. Similarly, schools can procure funds for the same from the local government bodies or CSR funds from corporates, he added

Teachers will have to undergo a three-day training session before they begin to use the tools in the classroom. The department has asked schools to fill out forms to seek slots for workshops once they have the necessary tools in place.

Teachers said that while the idea was good, it will be difficult to implement it in crowded classrooms . “There are 60-65 students in each class and we have to cover a large portion,” said Uday Nare, a teacher from Hansraj Morarji Public School, Andheri.