my Teaching approach
Fundamentals, Fundamentals, Fundaments
There are no math classes in middle or high school which do not require the use of addition and subtraction, fractions or decimals. Fundamental skills are fundamental at all ages. It is the mastery of fundamentals that builds stable confidence in mathematics.
From this simple principle, I am always looking for the skills and concepts a student is missing, or needs to strengthen their math foundation. This foundation is required to be successful in math in school. There is no faking the essentials.
Parents also underestimate their role in their child’s success. I work with and encourage parents to support students in practicing these fundamentals between lessons to facilitate concept retention. Although pushing students to practice math can be like pulling teeth, repetition is the key to long-term retention and comprehension.
ABOUT ME
My name is Ben Bigelow. I currently live in New York state, but work online with students all over the country to help them grow their understanding and experience success in mathematics.
I’ve spent nearly a decade in different roles of education. I’ve taught full time in the Denver Public School system as a high school math teacher, earned a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, spent years working for the corporate tutoring company Mathnasium, and worked directly (in person) and online with private clients.
My diverse experiences with ages, agencies, and schools help me to know what is most important for students to have success in the classroom.
