Teaching math can often be one of the most challenging courses in as much as many students either fear or hate the subject. As such, students may be reluctant to learn. In order to reach these students, teachers must find ways of motivating them. Because math can be difficult, failure is often a key factor in making students reluctant to try. The primary strategies involve making math interesting and less threatening. By doing these two things, most students will give their best efforts.

Make the math relevant. Try appealing to student interests when creating word problems. Have problems which involve real world scenarios. Use examples which draw upon things the students know and care about. Problems can involve their school team. Game scores are easy to use in math problems. Problems can involve money and budgeting for things students like to buy.

Be enthusiastic when teaching math. If you do not appear to be having fun, the students won't have fun either. Make sure to get across your love of the subject. Math should be viewed as a fun activity, a sort of mental puzzle. Try adding in Sudoku or other math puzzles to your classroom activities.

Allow students to play math games on the computer on special occasions or as a reward. There are numerous online game sites which have games designed to build math skills. Games will make math more fun. When students are having fun, their brains are engaged and open for learning.

Assign easier assignments for reluctant learners who are behind the curve in your class. Give them easier work to help them catch up to the rest of their classmates. Giving them assignments they can complete will build their math confidence. Confidence will go a long way toward motivating reluctant students.

Use starter problems for students having particular difficulties. A starter problem is one where you give the student the first step in the math process to get him going. When grading, grade on a slightly reduced scale so that even if completed correctly, it won't be worth full credit. This keeps it fair for the rest of the students. For struggling students, receiving a 90 or 95 for a reduced credit problem is still a positive reinforcement.

Give a motivational talk if necessary. Tell them that everyone as difficulty with certain subjects, but that the difficulties can be overcome with effort. Explain that any knowledge gained, even if not perfect, can still be useful to them. Reinforce that all learning is valuable.