So much good mathematics begins with play … with arranging, manipulating, folding, cutting, and drawing objects and shapes. Except for the drawing, there need be no pens or pencils in sight!
Even the abstract thinker draws on his/her experiences with manipulating objects. They have sorted them, placed them in groups, stacked them, compared them, arranged them in patterns, etc. All our fundamental abstract concepts are learned in this way. We even develop different problem-solving strategies, extrapolate and interpolate results, discover and analyse patterns, and make inferences and generalisations about the objects that we play with. Even older children (and adults) can benefit from such play, although it is of fundamental importance for the developing child.
Having been inspired by W W Sawyer’s book, The Search for Pattern, as a teenager I must admit to the belief that all mathematics is based upon pattern and our search for it. I also believe that it is important that we manipulate shapes and objects because the same part of our brain that controls our fingers is involved in our calculating with numbers and discerning the patterns that they make. In other words, we are training that part of the brain.
It will take time to populate this part of my site with ideas and puzzles/problems that you can use and solve, but that does not diminish their importance!
We were all deeply impressed with Graeme from the very beginning. [Lucas’] confidence radically changed within only 3 weeks of Graeme’s instruction and assistance. I am sure this was largely attributed to Graeme’s infectious passion and love for his subject, and his high personal level of skill, teaching experience and understanding of mathematics. Lucas always found Graeme could explain concepts so knowledgeably and easily, which really did transform Lucas’ appreciation and enjoyment of the subject. Graeme always gave Lucas assistance and time over and above his hour’s tutoring session. Graeme has developed a wonderful relationship and more of a mentoring role which has been of great assistance and value to Lucas as he faces the pressures of his final year of school. I have no hesitation in recommending Graeme as an outstanding tutor and friend, and a very wise, knowledgeable and capable teacher of the highest calibre.
Sally T (parent, 2005)
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