While some children take to math like fish to water, a majority of students have a rough time struggling through formulas and functions. Educationists believe that standardized method of teaching and testing is the main reason for poor grades and lack of interest in math. Students respond well to teachers who take interest in teaching math in an interesting manner and give individual attention when certain problems are difficult to understand. They agree that a major reason for poor math grades is poor teaching skills and lack of subject knowledge.

Teaching styles to make math interesting

a. Daily practice sessions
b. Making students explore logical math in a fun way
c. Using single programs like Jump Math to retain interest

Factors causing poor math grades

Besides the lack of proper teaching methods, it has been noticed that children from low economic backgrounds are also low performers as their parents are unable to guide them in academics. Children with high economic background with educated parents are generally able to perform better due to amiable atmosphere at home. When math in junior grades is taught by a teacher who has not been specifically trained they are unable to meet challenges of inquisitive children causing disinterest and dislike for math. Lack of adequate teaching tools and professional teachers with app

Customized programs for math help

When children from low income families try to compete against children from privileged backgrounds and their performance is not on par, they feel discouraged. To overcome this roadblock, educational institutions should develop programs which will help disadvantaged children compete on an even platform with peers. Active support needs to be provided by government educational bodies to school boards on a nationwide front in a focused manner to enhance learning and analytical abilities of students.

Support groups like homework clubs and tutoring by bright students in the class will provide effective educational support after school. Breakfast or nutritious meals programs in schools will ensure that students can concentrate on education as they are not hungry anymore. Some schools have math class during morning hours when children's minds are fresh and attentive which helps them perform better. Developing innovating teaching methods to meet varied learning needs of children and ensuring that the trained teachers are sent to teach crucial subjects like math.

Programs to improve mathematical learning abilities of children should be implemented on a nationwide level similar to literacy programs which were implemented to improve reading and writing qualities. Future of every nation depends upon the abilities of its children to understand and appreciate both liberal arts and math.