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The Math Monster

© Debbie St. Germain

Lurking in corners, hovering on ceilings and following us everywhere we go is the Math Monster. Just when we think we've rid ourselves of him he reappears. He's been spotted in the mall, the kitchen and yes, even in our video games. It has been reported that the math monster has taken up permanent residence in the science class. His favorite trick is to use mind control. How many times have you been in the middle of a science project and gone completely blank, forgotten basic math rules or conversions. Well, now you know it's the math monster playing tricks with your mind. But there is a way to combat the effects of the math monster.

The first trick is to be smarter then the math monster. Practice your math skills till you know them by heart. When he tries to blank out your mind this time your skills will be firmly rooted. Since the Math monster is lazy he'll give up once he knows he has to work harder to mess you up.

For those of you who are unable to fight with memory powers, you can make your own book of spells to fight him off next time he creeps into your mind. You will need to buy a mini notebook. One with divided sections and binders is best. The first entry for your book of spells is basic math rules. Give yourself a test with the sites below and see where your weaknesses lie. The ones you have the most trouble with are the ones to write down. Try to keep an order with the subjects. That way you can find them easily.

When you get done with the basics you can enter formulas, conversions and anything that you may be using in your science class. Don't forget you will be using weights, measurements and temperatures and of course the metric system. Always leave room between subjects to add extra information later on as needed. Another thing you may encounter is mathematical signs. Make a list of those too.

Always carry this book with you. You never know when you may need it. The next time the math monster attacks, whip out your book. With a handy reference available, you'll never be stuck in science class again. It's hard to enjoy science if you get lost trying to remember a math formula or conversion. Check out the great sites I found for math lessons and games. Bookmark the ones you like the best and go back every week and practice. You'll be surprised how easy it is to completely rid yourself of the math monster. Practice and preparation will give you the skills and the confidence you need to be free of him at last.