This week, let’s dig into the Math For Keeps Glossary! In these glossary segments, I’ll explore the different terms and concepts that are central to the Math For Keeps approach to mastery.
Skill-building: An approach to teaching and learning that works toward holistic fluency in a subject (versus a reactionary lesson plan, built on external demands, such as homework help, test prep, etc).
Skill-building is one of the key ideas of the MFK philosophy. You’ll often hear me refer to myself or our Travel Tutors as skill-builders not homework-helpers. The distinction is huge. The most well-meaning homework-helper can inadvertently do more harm than good if what your learner really needs is skill-building. We at Math For Keeps are skill-builders. We’re not here to just help you with your homework, or even just to get the grade. We’re here to help you get the SKILL! For keeps!!!
Points to ponder. Fun stuff to roll around in your head, or better: to talk about with your learner!
Have you or your learner had an experience in learning or in life that illustrates the difference between skill-building and “homework-helping” or “cramming”? Discuss!