Answer to Question #194928 in Algebra for Metau

Question

As a secondary school mathematics teacher, during a parent-teacher meeting, a parent strongly argued that you should be giving the children lots of worksheets. Basing your discussions on one of the following topics (fractions, geometry: constructions, data representation, and graphs of functions), and with reference to the grade 8 learning content of the Junior Secondary Syllabus for Grade 8 & 9 syllabus: 1. Describe what you would say to the parent about how your teaching strategies are based on Bruner's theory, 2. How you are applying his theory as a teacher to one of the above-mentioned topics, and 3. Why worksheets may not be the only ideal learning strategy for the abovementioned grades and topic.

Answer 1

(1)The purpose of learning is to facilitate childs thinking and problem solving skills which can be applied in range of situations. Based on Bruners theory teaching involves three modes of representation namely inactive, symbolic and iconic and specifically teaching should develop symbolic thinking.

(2)In data representation and graphs of function, i allow the learners to construct their own knowledge by organizing and categorizing information using coding system.

(3)Worksheets may not be the only ideal learning since the most effective way of learning is to discover on their own rather than being taught by the teacher.