Éxito Educativo has published an opinion piece by Kieran Culhane, Head of Teaching and Learning for Mathematics at the British Council School in Madrid, to mark Mathematics Day. In this article, he highlights the importance of applying mathematics to real-life situations to foster critical thinking and creativity in students.
Throughout my career as a mathematics teacher, I have often heard students ask: "What is the point of maths in my daily life?" This is a completely valid question and, in fact, demonstrates a natural curiosity about the world around us. Far from being an abstract subject reserved for classrooms and textbooks, mathematics is present in every aspect of our lives, from architectural design to the financial decisions we make daily. And what better day than today, Pi Day, to demonstrate that maths is not only a tool for solving equations but also a way of thinking that helps us make better decisions, solve problems, and understand the world in greater depth.
Maths is often perceived as a subject confined to the classroom, present only in textbooks and theoretical equations. However, for students to truly appreciate its beauty and power, they must understand its relevance in the real world. When mathematics is connected to everyday experiences, engagement increases, confidence grows, and students develop essential problem-solving skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
A clear example of this is studying the relationship between distance, speed, and time. When analysing speed calculations, students can be assigned the task of studying Usain Bolt’s 100-metre sprint. Calculating his speed in metres per second and converting it into kilometres per hour allows them to visualise just how fast he was moving. Taking students out onto the school field to run their own 40 metres and apply the same formulas to their performance transforms an abstract concept into an engaging and memorable learning experience.
Another area where applied mathematics engages students is finance. Understanding percentages, interest rates, and budgeting are vital skills for managing personal finances in adulthood. Working on scenarios such as comparing loan interest rates or calculating savings from discount sales helps students realise how these calculations directly impact their lives.
Geometry also plays a significant role in students’ everyday lives, more often than they might realise. Activities such as planning room layouts, choosing the right furniture dimensions, or understanding perspective in photography all involve fundamental geometric principles. Connecting these concepts to real-life situations helps eliminate maths anxiety, demonstrating that mathematics is not an abstract skill reserved for experts but a tool applicable to countless aspects of daily life.
Encouraging problem-solving skills through mathematics is equally crucial. The ability to approach complex problems logically and systematically is a key competency in many careers, from engineering and computing to medicine and economics. By engaging students in problem-solving tasks with real-world applications, they not only strengthen their mathematical skills but also develop resilience, adaptability, and critical thinking—qualities highly valued by employers across all industries.
Logical thinking and problem-solving are not just essential for those pursuing mathematical careers; they are fundamental life skills. Every day, people face decisions that require analysis, reasoning, and evaluation. Whether comparing mobile phone contracts, calculating fuel efficiency, or managing time effectively, mathematics empowers individuals to make informed decisions.
One of the most common challenges in education is overcoming the belief that some students are simply "not good at maths", a stigma that often emerges at an early age. This is where teachers play a fundamental role: linking mathematics to everyday experiences and practical applications helps shift this perception and fosters confidence in learning.
By incorporating real-world applications into maths teaching, we nurture a generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators. Mathematics is not just a school subject—it is a powerful tool for understanding the world and making informed decisions. Most importantly, when students discover its real-life value, they not only improve in the subject but also gain self-confidence and become better prepared for the future.
So, the next time someone asks, "What is the point of maths?", the answer is simple: it’s useful for everything.
By Kieran Culhane, Head of Teaching and Learning for Mathematics at the British Council School in Madrid, with a strong background in mathematics and extensive teaching experience.