A Powerful Story...

During the Week of Inspirational Math by Jo Boaler and YouCubed, the topic of math and speed came up.  The idea was shared that there is no correlation between speed and being strong in math.  In fact, many top mathematicians are not quick with their math because they focus on looking more deeply into a math problem.  Also discussed was the idea that the timed math tests that many students are given can be damaging.  They can cause anxiety in students and have lasting implications.

One Rio Lab Class student shared a personal story about his experience with timed math tests.  He talked about how his second grade class did a timed math sheet with 70 problem.  He could never complete these (or anywhere close to it) in the time allotted.  This made him feel as if he was not very good at math.  His words tell a powerful story...

Fortunately this student now understands that math is not about speed, and he is currently one of the top math students at his grade level in his school.