A Math T1W2

Lesson 1: Students seem totally lost when they come to solving simultaneous equations that involve linear and non-linear equations. They are very weak in algebraic expansions and still think (a-b)^2 = a^2-b^2 - shocking. I have higher expectations of students who are assigned to do A Math. In the end, I spent a lot of time going through the elementary solving of algebraic simplication.

Lesson 2: I realised that these students are also pretty weak in their fractions. They thought that 4[(a-b)/3] = (4a-4b)/12 - another misconception to rectify. I had to show them how to do almost every question that I set as homework; what a waste of precious lesson time.

Lesson 3: We did a 3-questions test. Many were not able to solve accurately. I would love to have SRP with the students this week, but am not free because of the AFL workshop. I would be meeting them every Thursday to revisit the Sec 2 topics on expansion and simplification and clarify other doubts that they may have.

PS: Shaun Goh from 3N1 seems quite difficult to get to - doesn't hand in his work but at least would attempt the questions in the test. May take a little more time to establish rapport with him.

A Math T1W1

I have one class of Math this year. It has been a long time since I last taught A Math. I miss teaching it and at the same time, am a little hesitant that I may have forgotten how to go about handling the subject. The class is a combination of students from 3 classes, namely 3N1, N2 and N3. I've not taught them before.

Lesson 1: The students were rather quiet as I did my introduction and relayed my expectations for the year. We did a "Find someone who..." activity where they ran around the class to find 12 friends to fill up a template. That generated some response and excitement.

Lesson 2: We started on simultaneous equations and revised the two methods to solve them. Most of the students seemed competent at handling the topic, but needed some reminders in presenting their answers clearly.

Lesson 3: This was a continuation from lesson 2 where students practised solving more simultaneous equations. Homejoy was set for them to attempt the questions on their own at home.