Delores Ihejirika

Reflective Statement: Math

In the near future, being prepared to teach Mathematics means I need to have an
extensive knowledge of mathematics. In order to teach elementary school math, I will have to
show knowledge of multiple math courses in Algebra, Geometry, Statistics and Probability,
Functions, Modeling, Numbers and Quantity. It will enable me to be confident and ready to
explain various concepts and processes to my students. My experience would serve as a tool to
help my future students comprehend the concepts needed in understanding mathematical
problems. I would love for my students to have concrete knowledge about math because we are
living in the 21th century where everything now is been computerized and calculated. I have
become confident in knowing how to solve Pythagorean Theorem, Geometrical Concepts and
using Geometrical Modeling with various practices. Also, we were taught to find applications
like point, line, parallel and sums of angles. I had a hard time comprehending the steps needed
in the Pythagorean Theorem, I tried very hard to understand the formula and steps but I kept
lacking understanding. It made me not to perform very well but I succeeded in passing with a
grade of C. My various math classes made me to realize that, though it was a difficult course for
me, I did not give up but preserved. I would want my student to know that my class has made me
a better future teacher who is now able to use different strategies to solve and find answers to
problems.
My Math classes were the most challenging time for me in school. I took Math 40, 70
and 207 classes at El Camino College. I was taught new formulas, techniques and strategies
needed to arrive at a given question and answers. These classes have prepared me to teach my
future students about shapes and structures and how to analyze their characteristics and

relationship. My teacher also showed us the use of spatial visualization, the use of building and
manipulating mental representations of two- and three- dimensional objects and perceiving an
object from different perspective. We were asked to find points, measure the angles and check
each quadrilateral line. My math 40 and 70 classes were a great time for me in school despite the
challenge, because I have gained so much knowledge by enrolling in them and I am confident
and excited to help my future students.
The artifact that I am using to highlight my learning and understanding is from my Math
70 class on solving equations. My reason for choosing this artifact is because it shows my
knowledge and understanding on performing complex equation. It has helped me to be a better
thinker when faced with complex problems. My Math 70 class, has enable me to be focus, it has
shown me alternate ways by applying transformations and the use of symmetry to analyze
mathematical situation while following the Common Core State Standards. I finally understand
that there are different ways of finding the right answers to a problem. This experience connects
to the Grade 3 and 5 standards. My Math strategies included some of the following, such as
interacting with peers, understanding the Math language, Modeling, Organizing, understanding
the problem and thinking aloud. I would be happy to help my future students and I also believe
that my students would find it informative and motivating as learning Math will help them to
expand their horizon.