There is a new meme out there, suggested by @r_w_wright. "If we taught _____ like we teach math, kids would _____."
Here are some examples people have posted so far.
If we taught construction like we teach math, kids would bang nails into boards but never actually build anything. ~ @davidwees
I’ve frequently said similar about statistics: "We show kids the screwdriver, but never show them a screw." ~ @heyprofbow
If we taught driver’s ed like we teach math, students would feel no shame in announcing "I can’t drive" ~ @datadiva
…and as we integrate technology, let’s be sure kids aren’t just banging virtual nails into virtual boards ~ @ChrisHunter36
If we taught English the way we teach Math, students would be able to punctuate a sentence but have no appreciation of literature. ~ @ChrisHunter36
What if we taught math like Umbridge teaches defense against the dark arts? Oh wait, we do. ~ @rjallain
If we taught mathematics the way we taught music, everyone over 11 would have 1:1 tuition outside school… oh wait… ~ @ColinTGraham
If we taught teaching the way we teach math, then most teachers would only teach the way they were taught…oh wait… ~ @mathhombre
If we taught science the way we teach math, then people would think it’s only for the smart kids…oh wait… ~ @mathhombre
If we taught music the way we teach math, then most people would not be able to play an instrument…oh wait… ~ @mathhombre..
If we taught videogames… wait, we don’t teach videogames? Why do so many people play? ~ @mathhombre
Want to add your own examples? Add them either here as comments, blog about them, or post them to Twitter with the #ifwetaught hashtag.
R. Wright says:
Bah, you started it. I just abstracted it.
Also, I can’t believe the connection to Dolores Umbridge never occurred to me. Brilliant.
July 11, 2011 — 5:47 pm
Mr. P. Mo says:
If we taught soccer like we teach math, students would know every rule but have never played on a field.
July 12, 2011 — 12:32 am
Shelley Wright says:
If we taught technology like we teach math, students would say they’re not a technology person and refrain from taking any class with technology in it, as soon as they could.
July 12, 2011 — 12:41 am