Today, I observed Lucas’s Year 8 Maths session, where he guided his student through key mathematical concepts like graphing, algebra, and classifying triangles. The session focused on developing a solid understanding of these areas, helping the student build confidence in tackling various types of problems.
Lucas structured the session to begin with graphing exercises, encouraging the student to work through questions from their textbook in detail. As they worked on plotting points and interpreting graphs, Lucas emphasized the importance of solving problems without a calculator. This approach helped the student strengthen their skills. Lucas ensured the student understood the process step-by-step, often pausing to discuss any challenging areas and reinforcing key points.
The session then moved on to algebra, where Lucas encouraged the student to approach each problem by explaining their understanding and reasoning out loud, guiding them to articulate each step clearly. This method not only deepened the student’s comprehension but also provided Lucas with valuable insights into the mistake they could make along the way, allowing him to address any misconceptions immediately. The “think aloud” strategy proved effective, as it allowed the student to clarify their understanding and feel more confident in tackling complex algebraic problems independently.
Lastly, Lucas and the student delved into classifying triangles, an area that required careful attention to scaling. Lucas explained the importance of accurately naming each type of triangle—right, isosceles, scalene, etc.—and the distinctions between them. By emphasizing this, Lucas provided a strong foundation for the student, helping them understand why classification matters in mathematical contexts. He was patient and supportive, making sure the student understood the characteristics that define each type of triangle.
Throughout the session, Lucas’s approach was encouraging and thorough, fostering an environment where the student felt comfortable asking questions and making mistakes as part of the learning process. Because of Lucas, the student felt a greater understanding of the concepts covered and an increased sense of confidence in their Maths abilities.
Eleni Nicholas
