Mathematical Words In mathematics, we can’t do much without using language. Even though the mathematician may write a mass of equations, she needs words to explain their meaning. Good math instruction requires careful attention to the terms … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Language
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Dr. Cotter on Fractions
Fractions have a bad reputation as being incomprehensible and unpredictable. Cartoons and jokes exploit this fear of fractions for amusement. Believe or not, it’s all a huge misunderstanding. Fractions are amazing. Fractions are necessary. … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Fractions
Dr. Cotter and Geometry
For years geometry was not considered a topic that primary students could or should study, even though they are surrounded by geometrical shapes. Some second graders I worked with didn’t consider their geometry work to be math, until they saw numbers … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter and Geometry
Dr. Cotter on Helping Teach Math
There are ways a grandparent, family member, or friend can help a child with math. Here's a list of seven things that will help teach math to your favorite young person. 1. Value math and show a positive attitude toward math. Sadly, about 50% of … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Helping Teach Math
Dr. Cotter on Development
The terms development or developmentally appropriate are frequently used, but finding good definitions is difficult. A dictionary defines develop as growing and becoming more mature or advanced. We see physical development in the young child. We know … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Development
Dr. Cotter on Technology
People had been seeking simpler ways to perform calculations for centuries. Engineers, until the 1960s, used slide rules, a hand-operated mechanical calculator. It is one of the simplest analog computers which could perform multiplication, division, … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Technology
