As we know from experience, physics can bring forth big reactions from students – either you like it, or you shun it altogether. Why does this subject have such an impression on people?
It might probably be linked to one of the common factors below.
Let’s break down why such extreme reactions happen and try our 4 tips on how parents can make physics more interesting for their children.
For Children Struggling With Physics, First Exposure Matters. A LOT.
Imagine this: You and a bunch of friends are trying to find your way to your next hotel destination on your holiday and the road signs are unclear.
What do you do?
Chances are, you’ve already pulled out your phone and opened up Google Maps, using the GPS to head back to familiar territory.
But that wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for one guy and some cool physics. Yes, that guy being Albert Einstein and The Theory of Relativity.
What was your very first physics teacher like? Was he or she enthusiastic to incorporate these interesting facts and concepts into your daily life? Or were you simply memorising key formulas and trying to guess which formulas to use when attempting questions?
If you were first exposed to physics with mundane learning methods, it may affect how you view the subject.
Connecting Reality and Abstract Concepts is challenging work and we would rather…… not
Physics is a science that requires you to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You connect what you see with what you learn, and problem-solve through analysis and application of physics concepts and math formulas.
Physics questions come in all shapes and disguises, set into various scenarios and situations, so one has to be agile in thinking yet focused on identifying the keys to unlock the issues.
It is a subject that challenges both your understanding of theoretical concepts and practical application and that sounds like a massive headache to many.
We at Concept First believe that physics can be made relevant through hands-on practical work. It is an interesting and thought-provoking subject which studies the universe and has contributed to the development of amazing human technologies such as TESLA’s electric cars, Japan’s bullet trains and smartphones!
Wait. Do I need to be good at math to be good at physics?
The language of physics is math.
Yes. Read that again. The language of physics is math which can also be a challenging subject on its own.
Solving physics problems requires you to know A LOT of math. You build off concepts that are illustrated through mathematical equations. If you’re already experiencing challenges in math, it may spill over to physics as well!
How can we make physics more interesting for your child?
- Let Them Play Video Games
As unconventional as it seems, we’re not saying to let your child play hours of mindless games but games that explore aspects of math and science. Games you can specifically choose for them. There are tons of games out there to teach your kids about the various aspects and different elements of physics.
- Watch Interesting Videos Together
With the rise of social media like YouTube, many educators and scientists have taken to the platform to share their knowledge. Search for interesting experiments and work together on a few with your child at home. The experiment may not always be successful, but it is the experiential learning that is important, and there’s a bonus parent-child bonding time spent together!
- Learn and Be Mentored by the Experts or Professionals
Having mentors and teachers who know how to make physics interesting and easily understandable is greatly beneficial. A good tuition centre can help raise your child’s morale and interest through innovative and engaging curriculums. The extra attention gained from a smaller class may just be what they need to ignite their interests and aptitude in physics.
At Concept First, our learning system is a careful combination of concept-based learning, application and problem solving, physics lab experience, learning resources designed to facilitate easy independent learning, digital lessons and examination questions archives developed through years of fine-tuning by our curriculum team led by myself.
Studying any subject can be challenging. Try to focus on the efforts your child has put into their learning and reward them for their efforts instead of only their grades and results. This helps to encourage your child to develop a ‘growth mindset’.
So fret not, as it is very possible to score well in physics.
How? We make learning stress-free by making the subject enjoyable through engaging teachers and useful learning resources. By learning to appreciate and view the subject through a different perspective which intertwines with many events in our daily lives. Together with further guidance and good practice questions, that’s when you’ll gain your “EUREKA!” moments.
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