How to Overcome Mathphobia (a hatred of Math)

We are in the spring semester at the college where I teach. (I teach Mathphobics who aren't always thrilled to be in my math class.) Last week, as the students were entering and finding seats, I was greeted with, “Math is my worst enemy!” I guess this particular student was waiting for an impending Math Attack. But then I began thinking, “Should this student wait to be attacked or learn how to approach and conquer the enemy?” Since winning any battle requires forethought and planning, here is a three step battle plan for Mathphobics.

1) Determine why math is your enemy. Did you have a bad experience? Were you ever made to feel stupid, foolish, or brainless? Did your parents say they didn’t like math, and it was a family heredity issue? (One of the curious characteristics about our society is that it is now socially acceptable to take pride in hating mathematics. It’s like wearing a badge of honor or is that dishonor? Who would ever admit to not being able to read or write?) Math is an essential subject and without math, not much is possible...not even telling time!

2) Be optimistic. Suffering from pessimism when thinking of or doing math problems makes it impossible to enjoy math. Come to class ready to learn. At the end of class, write down one thing you learned or thought was fun. I realize math teachers are a big part of how a student views math. In fact, one of the most important factors in a student’s attitude toward mathematics is the teacher and the classroom environment. Just using lecture, discussion, and seat work does not create much interest in mathematics. You've been in that class. Go over the homework; do samples of the new homework; start the new homework. Hands-on activities, songs, visuals, graphic organizers, and connecting math to real life engage students, create forums for discussion, and make math meaningful and useful.

3) Prove Yourself. Take baby steps, but be consistent. Faithfully do the homework and have someone check it. Don’t miss one math class! You can’t learn if you aren't there. Join in the discussions. Think about and write down your questions and share them with your teacher or with the class. Study for an upcoming test by reviewing 15 minutes each night a week before the test. Get help through tutoring, asking your instructor, or becoming a part of a study group. Keep in mind, no one is destined for defeat!

So don’t just sit there and wait for the dreaded Math Attack. This semester, meet it head on with a three step battle plan in hand!

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Pi Day is on March 14! Do you know why?

Mathematicians love to celebrate anything related to math; consequently, Pi Day was invented by some anonymous mathematician.  It is observed every year on March 14th because if this date is written in a month - day format, we get 3-14 which is similar to 3.14, the estimate we use when working with Pi.

The symbol for Pi (π) comes from the 16th letter of the Greek alphabet which is written as “π”.  When used in mathematics, this symbol stands for a constant which is the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.  This is approximately 3.14159.  Remember using the formula C = π d in high school ? This formula is used because the circumference of a circle is about three times the diameter.

We classify Pi as an irrational number because it cannot be written as a simple fraction. The decimal goes on and on forever without ending or repeating any numbers. In other words, it is infinite.  While only a few digits are needed for typical math calculations (we usually use 3.14), mathematicians (not me) have calculated Pi to over one trillion digits beyond its decimal point. Pi’s unlimited nature makes it a fun challenge to memorize, but I doubt if anyone has memorized a trillion digits!  Now there is a great bonus assignment for some math teacher to try! 

Since Pi Day gives math people a reason to celebrate, let's have some fun with Pi.  On the left you will see a pumpkin "Pi" (π).  Could it have been made by a mathematician?  On the right, is some "pi" in the sky! I wonder if the person flying the airplane is a pilot?

Have a great and glorious "Pi" Day which, in my opinion, 

is just another way to celebrate math.