Many students find it tough to add and subtract time using the 24-hour format, which is also called military time. Here are some common problems they face:
Getting the Idea: Lots of students know the 12-hour format better. Switching to the 24-hour clock can be hard for them. This can make it confusing, especially when changing from AM/PM to the 24-hour time.
Counting Hours: When adding times, if the total goes over 24 hours, students might not realize they need to start again from zero. For example, if you add 14:00 and 10:00, you get 24:00, but that should be changed to 00:00.
Subtraction Problems: Subtracting times can be tricky too. Students might get confused about borrowing when the first time is smaller than the second, which can lead to wrong answers.
Even with these challenges, students can get the hang of it through practice:
Practice Often: Doing regular exercises with different time problems can help students get used to the 24-hour clock and make them quicker at calculating.
Use Visuals: Timelines or charts that show the 24-hour format can help students see how the times connect to each other.
Step-by-Step Methods: Teaching students clear steps for changing and calculating time can help reduce confusion. For example, when adding times, they can first split the hours from the minutes and work with them separately.
By using these tips, students can slowly work through their difficulties and get better at using the 24-hour format.
Many students find it tough to add and subtract time using the 24-hour format, which is also called military time. Here are some common problems they face:
Getting the Idea: Lots of students know the 12-hour format better. Switching to the 24-hour clock can be hard for them. This can make it confusing, especially when changing from AM/PM to the 24-hour time.
Counting Hours: When adding times, if the total goes over 24 hours, students might not realize they need to start again from zero. For example, if you add 14:00 and 10:00, you get 24:00, but that should be changed to 00:00.
Subtraction Problems: Subtracting times can be tricky too. Students might get confused about borrowing when the first time is smaller than the second, which can lead to wrong answers.
Even with these challenges, students can get the hang of it through practice:
Practice Often: Doing regular exercises with different time problems can help students get used to the 24-hour clock and make them quicker at calculating.
Use Visuals: Timelines or charts that show the 24-hour format can help students see how the times connect to each other.
Step-by-Step Methods: Teaching students clear steps for changing and calculating time can help reduce confusion. For example, when adding times, they can first split the hours from the minutes and work with them separately.
By using these tips, students can slowly work through their difficulties and get better at using the 24-hour format.