Sixth grade math students are introduced to a whole host of new concepts, topics, and problems. One such concept is logical math. Logical math is the study of mathematical reasoning and how to use logical thinking to solve more advanced problems.
Having learned basic arithmetic concepts in fifth grade, when they begin to understand logical math, students learn to apply this previously learned knowledge to solve more complex problems using mathematical reasoning and logical thinking.
But what kind of problems can students solve using logical math? Let’s take a look and see just how important these lessons will prove to be for students as they navigate sixth grade math and the rest of middle school.
Developing Vital Skills
Logical math is one of the most vital concepts students will utilize in their math studies. It is in these classes that students will develop two key skills: problem-solving and critical thinking. These skills are crucial if students are to succeed in math class, and, as we’ve seen in another recent blog post, some of these skills are transferable and aid students far beyond the four walls of their math classroom.
When students develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, they are able to approach problems in a new, systematic, and logical way. Students will learn to break down a seemingly mammoth math problem into smaller, more digestible, and solvable parts.
In sixth grade math, in particular, students will also learn to use mathematical reasoning to tackle and solve real world problems. This ability demonstrates to students just how important math is and how it is used in the real world outside of school.
This development of a student’s critical thinking skills allows students to see problems in a new light, analyze problems and think critically about solutions, as opposed to just rushing into a question and trying to get any answer down on paper.
Key Concepts Encountered
Along with developing the vital skills mentioned above, logical math introduces sixth grade students to a variety of new concepts, topics, and problems that, soon enough, they will be able to use, analyze, and solve with ease.
Mathematical Operations
One of these key concepts is the order of operations. This particular concept is a set of rules that tell us the order in which we must perform certain mathematical operations.
Perhaps the clearest example we can look at is if we are challenged to solve the problem 2 + 5 x 7. Our knowledge of mathematical operations tells us that we must perform the multiplication (5 x 7) before the addition 2 + (5 x 7). If we had first added 2 and 5, then multiplied by 7, we would get the wrong answer.
Fractions
The next key concept learned in sixth grade is fractions. Now, you may say to yourself that fractions are straightforward, but it is at this age that students first learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions.
On top of this, sixth grade students are also taught how to convert fractions, percentages, and decimals. This ability is one of the best examples of math that we use in the real world – for example when we are calculating how much we save on a dress that is on sale for 15% off – and is also used extensively as students progress through middle school, high school, and beyond.
Ratios & Proportions
Living in the same realm as fractions, percentages, and decimals; rations and proportions is another key lesson that students will encounter in sixth grade. Students learn about using ratios to compare two quantities, and they learn how to solve problems using proportions.
This skill transcends the classroom in a similar way to percentages and fractions, and is very important when it comes to acquiring real life skills such as cooking and conducting finances.
Algebraic Expressions
One final topic that merits a mention is algebraic expressions. Sixth graders will come face-to-face with algebraic expressions for the first time in their math journey, and they will be expected to be able to translate word problems into algebraic expressions, and how solve similar equations using inverse operations.
This may sound intimidating, but it is a vital lesson that will aid many students in the years to come, particularly those who wish to study science, engineering, or other technical fields when they graduate from high school.
At Online Math Center
As your child moves through middle school, be sure to give them all the help they can get. Sixth grade students may need additional tutoring if they are to properly grasp logical math and all the problems and challenges that come with it.
At OMC, we offer a full range of individual tutoring services, including classes focused on each grade through middle and high school, SAT preparation courses, and math competition preparation courses. Our team of professionals has the skill and experience required to help plug gaps in your child’s knowledge and help them get ahead of the pack.
Contact OMC today and enroll your child in our sixth grade courses, so you don’t have to worry about them understanding any of the topics they will face throughout the year.
