Combinatorics is one of the oldest branch of mathematics, dating back to the 16th century. Combinatorics may be defined as a principle of calculation involving the selection and arrangement of objects/numbers. Combinatorics as a subject is incorporated in school mathematics curriculum. Some teachers focus on these thinking skills, most don’t.
Let me demonstrate this thinking skill in a simple math problem
A rectangle is given. Its area is 20 sq units. We need to find its perimeter.
Area = length x breadth
Perimeter = 2 x ( Length + breadth)
The length and breadth are not given.. So we need to figure out possible values for length and breadth.
When a student develops combinatorial thinking, the student is able to think of multiple possible answers for the given problem.
Since 20 = 5 x 4 or 10 x 2 or 20 x 1
There are three possible answers for the perimeter( assuming length and breadth are integers)
Answer 1: Perimeter = 2 x ( 5+ 4) = 18 cms
Answer 2: Perimeter = 2 x (10+2) = 24 cms
Answer 3: Perimeter = 2 x (20+1) = 42 cms
If kids learn this type of thinking, they will be able to solve problems with higher order thinking.
The fear of math is called math anxiety, and the fear of physics is called physicsphobia. Both can be common and affect people’s lives in many ways. To remove this fear in kids,
Now try the sums below
Feel free to contact our subject matter expert. Call- 9884123808 or click here
