Over the years of teaching mathematics, I have frequently been asked by children why it is necessary to learn multiplication tables, division, and other arithmetic skills when calculators are readily available. In essence, they are questioning the significance of arithmetic. Mastery and fluency in arithmetic are essential for mathematics for several important reasons:
- Arithmetic is used in everyday tasks, such as managing finances, cooking, shopping, and time management. Being able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide is necessary for budgeting, measuring, and making decisions based on numbers.
- Arithmetic fluency saves time when doing calculations, whether it be in maths class, science class and so on.
- Improving arithmetic fluency enhances cognitive skills like memory, concentration, and attention to detail. It helps in developing critical thinking, which can be applied in various aspects of life beyond mathematics.
- Being confident in arithmetic gives children the confidence to tackle harder maths problems. In the same vein, understanding arithmetic is crucial for progressing to more advanced areas of mathematics like algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.
- Many professions, such as accounting, architecture, engineering, and even teaching, require a strong foundation in arithmetic. It opens up a wide range of career opportunities that rely on numerical analysis and accuracy.
In essence, arithmetic is important because it forms the foundation for all areas of mathematics and plays a critical role in daily life, education, and various professional fields.
Tips to improve arithmetic skills and fluency at home:
- Apply arithmetic to real-life situations, like grocery shopping or cooking. Estimating costs, converting measurements, and calculating discounts will give your child practical arithmetic experience.
- Play games like Sodoku or online maths games (of which there are many).
- Ask some simple arithmetic questions on the car ride to or from school. (But don’t overdo it!)
