Count on Your Fingers – It Helps with Math

Submitted by Judy Hanning on Wed, 2017-01-25 04:00
Studies have linked finger perception of first graders to a better comprehension of complicated math problems even those that involved high numbers. Other studies have shown more finger knowledge in first grade is leading to better scores in various forms of math. University students with a better awareness of their hands are scoring well also.

“I think this is a great article on mathematics because it provides insight into the strategy of counting with fingers and how it can really help children.”

Six-year-olds trained to be more aware of their fingers are showing greater understanding of math skills and counting. Their view of their fingers is proving to be a greater predictor of performance on math tests, than tests of cognitive processing. Many teachers believe, falsely that finger use is of no use and should be stopped immediately.
Evidence from both behavioral and neuroscience studies shows that when people receive training on ways to perceive and represent their own fingers, they get better at doing so, which leads to higher mathematics achievement.
~ Fernette Eide

Key Takeaways:

1
It is natural to count on your fingers.
2
Learning ways to represent and use fingers can improve math scores.
3
Embedded video of Webinar “Mindset and Math without Anxiety” for those wishing to learn more.
Read the full article here:
http://www.dyslexicadvantage.org/count-on-your-fingers-it-helps-with-math/