Reflection on Learning environment, attitudes & conceptual development associated with innovative strategies in middle-sch Math by Philip I & Barry J.

It is not uncommon for students to lose interest when it comes to grasping abstract concept that are beyond them. Topics and concepts on Alegbra are not easily understood as they are not something that you can touch, feel and see.

Also students do not have the background and foundation to really do self-study or extremely motivated to do well in such topics.

For example in the primary school Science syllabus, students always have problem understanding concepts on forces and energy. These are abstract because they cannot touch and hold on to forces and energy and thus cannot make sense of it. A lot of understanding have to be derived from hands on sessions where they conduct experiments and they see for themselves the effect of forces and what energy can do to our lives.

Learning environment thus become very important when we want them to create their own understanding of certain topics. A lot of support has to be given and they must feel that the environment is non-threatening before they would participate with ease.

Therefore, it takes a lot of experience for a teacher to plan an effective lesson where students grasp the concepts readily through the activities planned and peer interactions and discussions.
Once students feel that learning in this context is useful and they really learn something from the lesson, they will be motivated to learn more. This is what most teachers want out of their students - to be motivated learners.