Learning mathematics: Like proposing to a girl

Abstract

This poem likens learning mathematics to a boy who proposes love to a girl. In the African culture, there are certain qualities of a girl that are considered when she is ripe for being proposed to: outside physical appearance, hardworking capability and beauty as well as inner qualities such as intelligence, good morals, faithfulness, loving and feeling for others. However, there are challenges and obstacles encountered when the boy proposes love. In this poem, the 'learner' of mathematics is the 'boy' whereas the 'girl' is mathematics itself. Suggestions for dealing with the challenges and obstacles are hereby given. This poem can be dramatized or acted by teachers and their learners in the mathematics classroom situation, or can be used as a motivational teaching strategy by mathematics teachers or college lecturers.