Reasons for difficulties in learning mathematics Differences between ‘school’ maths and maths in the real world Prior learning experience “Carry over” maths misconceptions Attitude / stress / anxiety

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“People are not disturbed by things but by the views which others may take of them” Epictetus (55-135AD) Maths is uninteresting and just for nerds Loaded school reports: “Careless, lacks attention to detail.” etc

How stress leads to anxiety Stress is caused by an immediate threat or concern. Anxiety is stress that continues after the immediate threat or concern has gone.

Anxiety Learning block FailurePressurePanic Falling behind

What is Maths Anxiety? Anxiety - tension and strain affecting both body and mind. Maths Anxiety may be generalised or focused upon one specific aspect of maths. Can be sparked by: –classroom culture/climate –home/parental climate/culture Teachers can have maths anxiety too

When have you had feelings like this? “ I mustn’t panic.” “It seems easy for the others.” “I should be able to do this.” “I don’t understand. ” “Quick, what’s the answer? Quick, quick.”

“When I look at a maths problem, my mind goes completely blank. I feel stupid, and I can’t remember how to do even the simplest things.” “Maths terrifies me. My palms get sweaty, I breathe too fast, and often I can't even make my eyes focus on the paper. It’s worse if I look around, because I’d see everybody else working, and know that I’m the only one who can’t do it.”

What are the symptoms of maths anxiety? Panic - They find themselves unable to function. Their mind goes blank and they often feel they can’t do things that were easily done last week, last month etc. Guilt - They have a feeling that everyone knows the answer except them. Helplessness - An attitude that either you have a maths-type mind or you don't. They feel they cannot learn and there is nothing you can do to improve. So, sit back there’s no point to any action. Lack of - They don't trust their intuition. They put all their confidence efforts into memorising rules or procedures instead of understanding the concepts.

Maths anxiety Memory and Mathematics Short Term Memory Long Term Memory Active Working Memory TransferOutput Input

Learners who are anxious or stressed do not learn effectively Maslow’s hierarchy of needs Self actualisation Esteem needs Love and belonging needs Safety and security needs Physiological needs