Frequently Asked Questions:
- I'm NEVER going to use this. Why do I have to learn it?
- Why do you assign homework?
- Why do you insist on students using pencils?
- Question #4 (blank)
- Why don't we ever have a free day?
- Why don't you assign extra credit work?
- What's with the wierd clothes?
I'm NEVER going to use this. Why do I have to learn it?
Today's education system is frontloaded. That means we give lots of
information in a relatively short period of time, and well before any student
will ever use it "in the wild." The truth of the matter is that you may not
use the pure, undistilled content taught in math courses in your life. You
will, however, use the concepts. Mathematical concepts are essential to
surviving in the real world.
How long until I have to be at work? How much money do I have left until
payday? How will I rearrange my room so all this furniture fits? How much
wrapping paper will I need to wrap this gift? At what point does a pay raise
result in my paying more in taxes? How small can I make the point gap in my
distributor?
All of these questions are algebraic and geometric in nature. If you have a
strong foundation of basic concepts (in math, social studies, English,
science, and art), you will have a strong foundation for reasoning in the
future.
Why do you assign homework?
Homework is the key to success in math. Just as it isn't possible to
proficiently play an instrument without practice, it isn't possible to be
proficient in mathematical reasoning without practice. NO, I do not expect
the homework to be perfect. What is expected, however, is that you will
THINK
about every problem, and make a good-faith effort to complete each problem ON
PAPER.
In addition, it is a good thing for you to learn good work and study habits.
Why do you insist on students using pencils?
Math is a sport which requires a lot of trial and error. Very few students
(teachers, too!) are able to complete complex problems without making
mistakes. Pencils allow students to erase rather than scribble out any
errors
-- such scribbling makes grading very difficult! In addition, when the
papers
are in pencil, it is easier for the student to see the comments I write on
the
page.
Your employer will make all sorts of demands upon you in the future...wear a
uniform, button all buttons, trim your hair, etc. In math, I am your boss.
Use a pencil!
If you do not have a pencil, I would be happy to sell you a pencil for 10
cents. Being prepared for class? Priceless.
Question #4 (blank)
.
Why don't we ever have a free day?
We do! Free days are Saturday and Sunday. During the week, however, we will
be doing mathematics in my classroom EVERY DAY!
Why don't you assign extra credit work?
You can get any grade you choose to by doing the ACTUAL credit work. Too
many students are willing to do only extra credit, but never the actual
credit.
What's with the wierd clothes?
They aren't wierd -- you just can't purchase them anywhere. I like to make
my own clothing from socks to sweaters to suits. This makes my wardrobe
distinct and unique. Also -- I love the pattern paisley.