Page 39 - TPGFBAO First Draft (5th Ed)

Step by Step Process helps Comprehension

An example of learning a new skill is a Tennis serve, A coach breaks down the

process into a series of steps that address elements such as positioning the

feet, tossing the ball, and moving the racket. Each of these skills can be ex-

amined and practiced independently and then in combination. When each

element is correctly applied in concert with the others, the process of serving

a tennis ball is complete. The same process holds true for rational think-

ing. As in learning a skill, we can break problem solving into individual

steps that we practice. We can thus improve our rational thinking—and help

others improve theirs.

Approach to solving Math Problems to Im-

prove Reasoning Ability

Math is the subject best suited to improve logical thinking. Unfortunately the

over emphasis on getting the right answer takes us away from the process of

reasoning. The reasoning muscles are getting trained when the problem is in

the process of being solved. If the child gets the answer straight away then

the mind has not received the requisite training. This unfortunately is hap-

pening today through impatient parents and tutors. It would be good if just

hints are given and the student is encouraged to continue effort to solve the

problem. The same analogy applies to other subjects as well.

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