Mathematics in Malawi by Rashika Nkhandwe
Mathematics in Primary School in Malawi
by Rashika Nkhandwe. 13 years old. Chankhasi School
In this essay I am going to explain what we learn in mathematics in primary school in Malawi.
I will explain more about mathematics like behaviour of mathematics, it’s importance and its influence and also the problem why many students fail this subject in Malawi, especially in rural areas where I come from.
We define mathematics as a study of numbers, shape, and pattern. In primary school we learn different topics like, counting, addition of money, angles and graphs, such topics have their behaviour.
In counting, we count numbers by arranging order by the system of ascending and descending order. From the smaller number to the bigger number and the from the bigger number to the smaller number.
The importance of mathematics is that we know how to calculate money in different places like markets, banks and even at home. The arrangement of numbers in the order also helps us to know which number is bigger and which number is smaller. In banks we need to know how to count money.
Angles which we learn in mathematics help us to know how to build houses and bridges. Angles also help when people join military service. For example, soldiers to shoot a gun they target angles. Angles also help players in the football field.
Graphs learnt in mathematics help one when he/she becomes a doctor or nurse.
Learning mathematics in primary schools in Malawi especially in rural areas has so many challenges. The big challenge is theory. Mathematics always go with proof. That means one has to know and see what is happening. Most schools especially in rural areas do not have mathematical instruments like scientific calculators and many others. Lack of these materials make students not enjoy and understand mathematics.
That is why if one asks a student about what is a difficult subject here the obvious answer is mathematics.
So it’s my appeal that government should provide mathematical instruments in every primary school.
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