The Effect of Utilizing Storytelling Strategy in Teaching Mathematics on Grade Four Students’ Achievement and Motivation towards Learning Mathematics

Abstract

Learning can be enjoyable if teachers use appealing methods of teaching. Research shows that there is a high correlation between the student’s level of motivation and their achievements. The literature also shows that the ability to motivate students is a very important teacher characteristic. It was argued that the use of storytelling methods in teaching is very effective for motivating students’ desire to learn. Before the wide spread of new technology, narration was the only way to transfer heritage, customs, traditions, beliefs, and history from generation to generation. Egan argues that told stories direct the listeners’ emotions toward its content. Zazkis & Liljedahl see that the stories are interesting and can present ways to think and act as the stories’ heroes can do. The literature asserts that stories create a favorable environment for learning, and reduces students’ tensions and improves students’memory for what they learn. Many educators show interest in utilizing stories to transmit mathematical concepts. Standards for school mathematics, as suggested by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics considered communication as an essential component of learning mathematics. This means using language in the form of writing and speaking in order to communicate their mathematics ideas . As a result, it is important to practice the art of communication in different ways. Storytelling in teaching mathematics can help in understanding complex thoughts and ideas, because it encourages students to focus and think harder.