There are many factors (pun intended) that contribute to success in high school mathematics, many of which students have varying degrees of control over. One can decide to devote hours and hours to studying and practicing questions. One can seek out extra sources of support. One may not have a knack for problem solving, but persists nonetheless to gain more experience.
There is one particular aspect of control that I would like to elaborate upon. Preparation is often a vital tool for many tasks in life. If a student is prepared by ensuring there is a solid foundation on the most critical entry skills, the likelihood of success will greatly increase.
The following is my top 10 list for students seeking to be prepared to tackle the rigors of grade 10 mathematics.
- Memorize the times tables.
- Know the rules for integer operations, particularly relating to negative integers.https://mathpqjq.com/integer-operation-rules/
- Understand the process of adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions.https://mathpqjq.com/fractions/
- Grasp the underlying reasons behind basic algebraic solving skills.https://mathpqjq.com/basic-solving-skills/
- Learn how slope is related to the equation of a line.https://mathpqjq.com/equations-of-lines-2/
- Remember and apply appropriate exponent laws, particularly negative exponents.https://mathpqjq.com/exponents-and-powers/
- Utilize the Pythagorean Theoremhttps://mathpqjq.com/pythagorean-theorem/
- Learn the language of polynomialshttps://mathpqjq.com/polynomial-terminology-and-operations/
- Be clear on order of operations.https://mathpqjq.com/order-of-operations/
- Understand the words, factors, multiples, squares and square roots.https://mathpqjq.com/what-are-factors-and-multiples/
Just click any of the related links if you think more detail for a specific item would be beneficial. You will be lead to further information and to practice questions with solutions. There are probably other factors which could be added to this list. However, it is my strong feeling that these 10 capture the most relevant skills a student can carry with him or her when entering the realm of grade 10 mathematics.
If a student begins their high school math career with a solid grounding in most or all of these top 10 list items, I believe that the chances of success increase exponentially. An extremely important by-product of this process is the growth in confidence. We, as adults, have to continually remind and encourage students that they are capable to effectively engage in mathematical processes. If there is a gap of understanding in a basic prerequisite skill, or if the meaning of a word is not clear, a mental barrier can quickly form in the mind of any learner. As a student, ask yourself, “Is it worth putting in the time and effort to be ready for this academic challenge?” Only you can answer this question.
