It can be beneficial to introduce higher
math concepts to young students in many types of situations. Kids who excel in
math can get a head start and have fun learning things they enjoy at the same
time. In school, gifted and talented students may encounter higher math in
challenge classes. Sometimes they're also able to attend a math class above
their grade level. In reality, though, there are usually few opportunities for
them to really delve into the subject. Parents can help keep these students
interested by introducing fun activities at home.
Homeschoolers have the advantage of
individual attention. There are many stories of homeschoolers who develop a
strong interest in math and work their way through algebra, trigonometry,
calculus, and other higher math books at a very early age. The key is having
access to the materials, as well as simply enjoying the subject.
One thing to keep in mind is that some
advanced reasoning skills are needed in order to fully grasp a lot of the
concepts of higher math. The brain simply doesn't mature to this level until the
teenage years. On the other hand, the idea that basic algebra should be taught
in eighth grade or trigonometry in eleventh is rather arbitrary. After all,
students around the world learn these things at various ages, often younger than
in the United States. Kids often enjoy solving the puzzles of higher math, even
if they don't completely understand the underlying concepts. They can still use
formulas and apply them to problems.
There are a lot of wonderful resources
online for learning higher math, but not much is geared toward younger students.
There are, however, a number of great books published on the topic. Some of them
are listed below. Math competitions are another popular way to get kids
interested.
Activities and
Lessons
The Fibonacci Sequence in Gifted Classes explanations and
project ideas
Lewis Carroll’s Game of Logic introduces math., making math and
logic fun.
Gifted and Talented Math and Science
Calculus
Graphics --Images and explanations try to simplify calculus
Gifted Math Resources --Many education links to help advanced
students
Tips for Parents and
Teachers
The Math Forum @ Drexel University Resources for students,
teachers, and parents
Guiding Mathematically Talented Elementary Students
Mentoring Mathematical Minds Meeting the Needs of Talented
Elementary Math Students
Teaching Math in a Mixed-Ability Classroom
Math Competitions
Math Kangaroo Grades 2-12
American Mathematics Competitions --various
competitions
MATHCOUNTS Foundation Middle school
Helpful Books
Developing Math Talent
Primary Grade Challenge Math
Becoming a Problem Solving Genius
Real Life Math Mysteries by Mary F. Washington
Ten Things All Future Mathematicians and Scientists Must Know