Why is mental math important in teaching, according to the icons?

Mental math is important in teaching because it encourages independence in calculations. When students practice mental math, they develop the ability to solve problems on their own without relying heavily on external tools like calculators or paper. This independence fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they learn to manipulate numbers and understand mathematical concepts more deeply.

By honing their mental math skills, students become more confident in their abilities, which can enhance their overall mathematical literacy. This autonomous approach allows them to tackle a variety of math problems efficiently while still laying a strong foundation for more complex concepts. Thus, mental math becomes a vital tool in empowering students to become self-sufficient learners in mathematics.