When we talk about fashion trends, we are speaking in terms of the latest developments about certain things which catches the attention of many because it has an added interest of value that suits the everyday need. Surprisingly, it has become the way in the learning of modern mathematics that brings impact to the lives of people of the present age.
In the course of the twentieth century, the learning of mathematics has shifted gears in response to the radical changes in the community and educational institution in its aim to be at par with the demands of time.
During the second half of the said century, learning developments in mathematics from the pre-kindergarten to the eighth grade has shifted from the computational procedures in arithmetic to emphasize the developments in addressing the need of students in relation to further honing of mathematical skills.
The focal point on the performance of learners is to enable them to have a better understanding with the subject. Math educators defined successful mathematics in terms of proficiently unifying ideas aside from computational skills. With the “back to basics” approach the development is also aimed in making the process of computation fast and accurate wherein diligence played a major role in bringing about the involvement of reasoning, solving problems, connecting mathematical ideas and the use of math in communicating with others in the unification.
As the present relates to the influences of the past, modern mathematics under the platform of the K to 12 Curriculum of DepEd carries with it an organized program meant to advance the needs of learners. It provides students the understanding of the well-defined set of high-level skills and practices with the values and attitudes, appropriate tools which take into account the different contexts of Filipino learners.
Along with the comprehensive program are important skills needed to develop the aspects in knowing and understanding; estimating, computing and solving; visualizing and modeling; representing and communicating; conjecturing, reasoning, proving and decision-making; and applying and connecting. These approaches correlate with the unifying of ideas that modern mathematics advocates.
To further strengthen the vision, the recognition in using competent tools in learning math has been integrated in the form of manipulative objects, measuring devices, calculators, computers, smart phones and table PCs and the internet.
Another important factor which accompanies the program is the well- established context which can help guide students towards math proficiency and competency. The context are expected to enable learners in drawing the line between the lessons in progress with the situation and the condition of Filipino learners which tend to influence their study of the subject to develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Furthermore, the proper recognition given to personal beliefs, environment,
language, culture, traditions, as well as the learner’s prior knowledge and experience are considered as factors which can bring about the acceptance of students to take interest in the study of the modern math. .
Being endowed with much, learners are given the proper motivation in appreciating the value of the math subject which was once a dreaded segment in body of learning inside the classroom. Let us embrace and support the K to 12 Curriculum and enjoy the modern math.
By: BELLA AURORA L. YUMENA | Teacher III | Bataan National High School | Balanga City, Bataan
