Alena Miadzvedskaya

 

Resources for the Mathematics Student

College Success Brochure

Techniques to Help Achieve Success in a Mathematics Class:

Overview

Enroll in Proper Course Format  

Organize for Success

Arrange Resources

Prepare Before Class

Attend Class Regularly

"Do the Work” After Class

Test-Taking Tips

Final Success Tips

 

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Overview

There are numerous challenges facing the student enrolled in a mathematics class at a community college.  Many students have endured a negative experience somewhere along the way in mathematics, and this only serves to heighten their anxiety regarding a subsequent class.  Other students have been away from mathematics for several years, and are concerned that their skills may be “rusty.”  Still, other students are overwhelmed when faced with the tools used to teach mathematics, such as:  graphing calculators; interactive Internet-based activities for homework, labs and tests; and, as always, thick (and heavy!) textbooks with notation that is often difficult to decipher by the student.

 

In addition, some students question the need to be in a mathematics class at all.  Unless they are going to be an engineer, they reason, there’s no need to learn mathematics.  These students overlook the fact that experts around the world have, over a long period of time, determined that a basic foundation in college algebra is essential to the majority of careers requiring a post-high school degree.  In addition to engineering, these include careers in fields such as business, marketing, graphic design, computer science, economics, architecture, construction, and manufacturing.  Often, it’s not only the algebra skills that are needed in these career fields, but also, and perhaps even more importantly, the critical reasoning and problem solving skills, which must be mastered in an algebra course, that are so coveted by employers.

 

While these challenges may, at first, seem insurmountable, there are many actions that can be taken to help alleviate the student’s concerns, and provide the confidence and courage required to be successful.  This paper discusses several useful techniques found to help students achieve success in a mathematics class.  Please refer to Figure 1 below throughout this paper to clarify the relationship among the various topics

 

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Enroll in the Proper Course Format to Help Achieve Success

 

At some colleges there may be multiple versions of the same course that offer equivalent material in a different learning format.  This allows you to choose the format that most closely matches your learning style, and which has the best chance of yielding success for you.  For example if you learn best on your own and are a disciplined learner, a self-paced format may be best for you.  On the other hand if you learn best by having an expert teach a new concept to you, a lecture format might be optimal for you.   

You should consult with advisors, instructors and other professionals to determine the optimal format for you that will best match your learning style.  Enroll in the most appropriate mathematics class as soon as possible to improve the chances of receiving the desired class format.

See Appendix A for common examples of learning formats.

 

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Organize for Success

Before the semester begins, start early to organize for success in a mathematics class.  This is an important step that will help you get off to a good start in your class.  Key steps to getting organized include:

1.  Learn all you can about the class before the first class day. You can often accomplish this online, by reviewing the course description and schedule on the college’s website.  Also, the instructor’s website (if available) may have specific information (e.g., sample syllabus, homework) on the class.

2.  Acquire your textbook, graphing calculator, index cards (see below), and notebooks before the first class.  Consider purchasing two thick spiral notebooks—one for taking notes and one for homework.  Keep your receipts in case you need to return any items!

3.  Begin learning to use your calculator (see the section entitled “Arrange Resources” for recommendations on how to do this).

4.  Decide what technique you’ll use to take notes during class.  An “outline” format is one good method.  You can then highlight key points in the left margin.  As an example:

 

                         

 

5.  Also, it’s helpful to create either “formula cards” (using 3 x 5 index cards), or formula sheets—perhaps in the last few pages of your notebook.  These techniques will give you a “quick reference” of critical information as you learn it throughout the semester.  They are also great resources to use in test

6.  A good technique is to create a “challenge sheet,” where you maintain a list of topics or exercises that are particularly difficult or challenging for you.  Create one sheet for each test, and add to it during the time leading up to the test.  The challenge sheet concept will be discussed more fully in the section entitled “Take Tests to Demonstrate Competence.”  

7.   At the first class meeting try to determine the schedule for the semester.  This includes due dates for homework, labs, quizzes and projects.  Also, find out when and how tests will be administered.  

8.  Put all these critical dates on your personal calendar or daily planner, and then add separate blocks of study time for your mathematics class.

9.  Establishing a regular time to study will improve your motivation to do it!  You should plan to study 2-3 hours outside of class for every hour you are in class.  This includes completing homework, labs and projects, as well as reading ahead and studying for tests and quizzes.  Your study blocks should be no longer than 1-2 hours at a time.

 

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Arrange Resources (Support) for Success (or “How to Get Help”)

 Before the semester begins, you should begin to identify resources you can “tap” during the semester when you need extra assistance.  Examples of these include: 

1.  Identify resources available at your school that can assist you, such as:

a.  Math Lab, learning center (library), or study skills room. 

b.  Group study or online tutoring opportunities.

c.  Special centers to assist students with any type of disability.

d.  A private tutor.  While you will normally have to pay for this service, most colleges will assist you in locating one.

e.  Your instructor will also be available to assist you during office hours.

2.  Additional books, such as a student solutions manual, or tutorial manual.

3.  Book publisher’s website.  These websites are often a goldmine of information.  Some even offer free tutoring, as long as you are using their textbook.

4.  Other Internet resources, such as The American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges “Online Resource” link

        (see: http://www.amatyc.org/OnlineResource/index.html

5.  Many colleges offer special seminars near the beginning of the semester on topics such as:

·        Helping to relieve test anxiety

·        How to take effective notes

·        How to study

·        Effective use of the graphing calculator

·        Solving applications (word problems)

 

     Consider attending one or more of these seminars, which are often free!

6.  Use technology where feasible to assist you.  In mathematics an excellent tool often used is a graphing calculator.  Many instructors permit, and even encourage, use of a graphing calculator during class, on homework, on labs, and even on tests.  So, it’s a wise investment of your time to learn about the effective use of  your calculator.  There are many ways to do this, including: 

·        Manuals that come with your calculator.  If you didn’t receive one of these, check on the manufacturer’s website, since the manual is often available as a free download.

·        Your textbook, which may have an appendix or other information to assist you.

·        Instructors will often provide reference sheets or tutorials.

·        Websites that offer assistance.  Some of them offer graphical, step-by-step instructions for your specific calculator.

·        Videotapes (or video CD’s) are often available.  Check your library, learning center, publisher’s website, math lab, or your local bookstore to see if you can borrow or purchase these items.

·        Seminars.

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Prepare Before Class 

Once the semester begins, it is critical that you prepare before each class by taking steps such as these: 

1.  Read ahead before class, and familiarize yourself with the concepts and notation to be reviewed in that day’s class.

2.  Determine areas of confusion that you’ll ask about during class.  Have specific questions ready for your professor.

3.  Attempt to complete some of the homework exercises to become familiar with what you’ll be expected to do after class.

4.  Briefly review prior class material to prepare for a possible class quiz.

 

 

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Attend Class Regularly  

1.  Attend class regularly!  There is a strong correlation between class attendance and success!

2.  Bring your textbook, notebook, homework, graphing calculator and pencils to class.

3.  Sit near the front where you’ll have a clear view of the white board and viewscreen.

4.  Ask any questions you have on the prior day’s lesson and/or homework. 

5.  Take notes (see section entitled “Organize for Success” for details on this topic).

6.  Consider using a study partner throughout the semester.  Ask your instructor, or another student in the class, for assistance in arranging this.

 

 

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“Do the Work” After Class

1.  Learn the language, terminology and notation for the material you are studying.  Outline the objectives, and use this outline as a “check-off” sheet to help you prepare for the next test. 

2.  Review your notes as soon as you can after class.  This is a good time to: 

·        Correct mistakes.

·        Clarify confusing items.

·        Highlight key information.   

Determine points where you are confused, and make notes for follow-up questions.  Consider arranging your schedule so that you have a 1-hour break immediately after class to force yourself to complete this important task.

3.  Reread the material covered in class.  If you read ahead, this gives you an opportunity to clarify key points, and more carefully review the examples.

4.  If appropriate, create or add to a “formula card” or sheet (see section entitled “Organize for Success” for details on this topic).

5.  Learn the language, terminology and notation for the material you are studying.   

6.  Do your homework as soon as you can after class.  For each exercise use the following steps:

a.  Work the exercise,

b.  Check your answer,

c.  Revise your work until you arrive at the correct answer.

If you are unable to arrive at the correct answer after several attempts, then either ask about it in class the next period, or get help (see section entitled “Arrange Resources”). 

             7.  Add any appropriate topics or exercises to your challenge sheet in preparation for the next test.   

 

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Take Tests to Demonstrate Competence 

1.  Start preparing for a major test at least 1 week in advance.

2.  A suggested test preparation sequence:

·        Review all your notes and formula cards/sheets.

·        Review your completed homework, paying special attention to the instructions for each exercise.  Notice the process you used to work each exercise, since this is as important as the exercise itself.  Be sure to add the appropriate exercises to your challenge sheet for this test.

·        Take a practice test by simulating your real test environment as closely as possible.  For example, if you’ll have a time limit, then use this limit in your practice test.  Allow yourself to use only those resources you’ll have available at test time.  Have a friend administer the test to you, once again simulating the real test experience.  This practice test could be a “Chapter Review” or “Chapter Test” out of your textbook and/or a series of review or “target” exercises provided by your instructor.  As you score the test, be sure you add the appropriate exercises to your challenge sheet.  Completing a practice test is a great technique to help relieve “test anxiety.”

·        Review your notes a second time.

·        Actively participate in all test preparation sessions during class.

·        “Empty” your challenge sheet.  If you’ve been maintaining a list of topics and exercises since the prior test, now is the time to work on these items so that you can remove them from your list.  This can be accomplished by working extra exercises and using your resources (See section entitled “Arrange Resources”) to help you master each item on your challenge list.  Once all items are removed from the challenge list, you are ready to take the test!

·        If time allows, take an additional practice exam, where you once again simulate the exact test environment you’ll be using.

·        Be sure to save all your test preparation materials in a file folder or notebook for use later in the semester when you prepare for the final examination.

·        Last, but not least, be sure to eat a healthy, balanced meal and get a good night’s sleep before the test!

3.  When you actually take the test, do everything you can to relieve your test anxiety as soon as you can.  Try one or more of these techniques: 

·        As you take your seat for the test, tell yourself that you’ve prepared for this test, you know the material, and that your instructor is NOT trying to trick you.  Your instructor is most likely going to ask things you should know how to do.

·        BEFORE YOU WORK ANY EXERCISES, read through the entire test, and make note of the exercises you can do, and those that appear more challenging.  Some people like to work the “easy” exercises first.  Other people work them in the order listed.  There are other methods, as well, but USE WHAT WORKS FOR YOU!

·        If time allows, check your work.  Some people wait to the end to do this, while others check as they go.  If you’re allowed to use your calculator, you’ll be surprised how many exercises you can check with it.  Mistakes often cost you as many points on a test as do exercises you are unable to complete!

·        Don’t spend too much time on a particular exercise.  If you’re “stuck,” proceed to the next exercise.  Often you’ll learn something in a later exercise that you can use to work an earlier one.  Also, when you give an exercise a “second look,” sometimes the method to work it “jumps out” at you.  Again, try to use what works for you.

·        Always show your work either on the test, or on available scratch paper.  Always number your exercises on your scratch paper.  If your instructor awards “partial credit,” this technique makes it easier for the instructor to find your work!

 

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Final Tips for Success 

1.  Remember:  your instructor wants you to be successful as much as you do.  So, particularly if you’re struggling in your class, consult with your instructor during office hours.  The instructor will have additional suggestions for you, and will do everything possible to help you succeed.

2.  Do not get behind in class.  In mathematics, the subject material “builds on itself” as each day progresses, so if you are confused on a topic, things will get even more challenging as time passes.  Use the various “resources” you identified (see section entitled “Arrange Resources”) to help you get “current” in the class as soon as you can.  

            Follow the above techniques to help you achieve success in your mathematics class!


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Appendix A.  Examples of Course Formats

1.   The traditional lecture format will appeal to you if you need a structured learning environment, a steady pace, an instructor who will present the material, and regular interaction with other students.  This format may be offered at different paces, such as:  2 or 3 days/week for 16 weeks, 2 or 3 days/week for 8 weeks (Express), 4 days/week for 5 weeks (Summer I or II),  2 days/week for 10 weeks (Summer III) or 5 days/week for 10 days (Wintermester/Maymester)

 

2.   A modified lecture format (Passport Express) has an instructor(s), but allows more flexibility within the classroom setting, by permitting you to attend mini-lectures, which address your specific mathematics deficiencies.  As a result, you may be able to skip ahead on material where you can already demonstrate competency.  This format may allow you to complete a course before the end of the semester and perhaps complete a subsequent course within that semester.

 

3.   A self-paced format (Pod) will appeal to you if you can learn effectively on your own, and with limited help from an instructor.  This format is often computer-based, where material is presented via video or interactive software.  Homework, labs, projects and tests are also often completed using a computer.  An instructor is available to answer questions in a classroom setting, but not to teach the material.  Often, you may be able to complete some of your work outside the classroom.  This format may appeal to you if you are a disciplined student who can manage your time and complete an entire course on your own.  This format may allow you to complete a course before the end of the semester, and perhaps complete a subsequent course within that semester. 

 

4.   An internet-based format (Online) is a special type of self-paced format which enables you to complete all your coursework via the Internet, will also appeal to you if can learn effectively on your own, and with limited help from an instructor.  Homework, labs, projects and tests are completed or submitted using technology (internet or fax).  An instructor is available to answer questions, but not to teach the material.  The instructor uses a variety of online tools such as email and chatroom technology.  Tests are handled in a variety of ways; however, you may be required to come to campus to complete them.  This format may appeal to you if you are a disciplined student, who can manage your time and complete an entire course on your own.  Also, you must have good computer skills and a fast, reliable Internet connection available to you on a regular basis.  This format may allow you to complete a course before the end of the semester, and perhaps complete a subsequent course within that semester. 

 

5.   A learning community format may be available for Beginning Algebra and Study Skills.  This format will introduce Beginning Algebra topics while concurrently addressing fundamental Study Skills strategies. In addition to mastery of math skills, techniques will be taught in an effort to enable students to engage in active learning behaviors and attitudes through increased skill development in the areas of: problem solving, study strategies, note-taking and test-taking, time management, active listening, anxiety and learning style awareness, and wellness.  Students will learn how to manage anxiety in their active pursuit of learning the content of Beginning Algebra. A specific approach to studying will be developed by each student utilizing individual preferences.  This format will appeal to a student needing help learning how to study mathematics.

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