Ebook: Essential Mathematics : Book 2

This is the second of a three book series written for pupils in the age
range 11-14 years. Many classrooms will contain children with a
range of abilities in mathematics. This book is written to cater for
this situation and also has an ample supply of questions and
activities to stretch the most able.

The author believes that children learn mathematics most effectively
by doing mathematics. Interest and enthusiasm for the subject is
engendered by working at questions which stretch the pupil
forward in his or her knowledge and understanding. The author,
who is a teacher, emphasises a thorough grounding in the
fundamentals of number and algebra when working in the lower
secondary classroom.

It is hoped that the material in the books will stimulate young minds
and encourage logical thinking. Some exercises provide the necessary
practice in the basic mathematical skills required for later study.
There is no set path through the book and it is anticipated that
most teachers will prefer to take sections in the order of their own
choice. No text book will have the 'right' amount of material for
every class and the author believes that it is better to have too
much material rather than too little. Consequently teachers should
judge for themselves which sections or exercises can be studied
later. On a practical note, the author recommends the use of
exercise books consisting of 7 mm squares.

Many activities, investigations, games and puzzles are included to
provide a healthy variety of learning experiences. The author is
aware of the difficulties of teaching on 'Friday afternoons' or on
the last few days of term, when both pupils and teachers are tired,
and suitable activities are included.