8th Grade Performance

Steps to Learning Math

The emphasis on understanding is evident in the steps typical of Japanese 8th grade mathematics lessons:

• Teacher poses a complex, thought-provoking problem.
• Students struggle with the problem.
• Various students present ideas or solutions to the class.
• Class discusses the various solution methods.
• The teacher summarizes the class’s conclusions.
• Students practice similar problems.

In contrast, the emphasis on skill acquisition is evident in the steps common to most U.S. and German math lessons:

• Teacher instructs students in a concept or skill.
• Teacher solves example problems with class.
• Students practice on their own while the teacher assists individual students.