Nine-year-old Charlotte Muritala from Offa, Kwara State, has attracted attention for using TikTok to teach mathematics to other children.
Charlotte, a JSS2 student, developed an interest in mathematics at about the age of five and has since turned her passion for numbers into online lessons using a whiteboard, marker and smartphone.
Through her videos, she teaches topics including algebra, fractions, and lowest common multiple, breaking down mathematical problems into simple steps.
Speaking during an interview with Channels Television on Monday, Charlotte said she enjoys mathematics because of her love for numbers.
“I started liking mathematics since when I was small. I love mathematics because I enjoy numbers,” she said.
For Charlotte, difficult mathematical questions are not a reason to give up. Instead, she said she breaks them into smaller parts to make them easier to solve.
“First, I like breaking them into small part. That makes it easier for me. So I break it into small part, then I solve it,” she said.
She added that she looks for another approach when she encounters difficulties while solving a problem.
“Once I start solving the hard problem, if I am not getting it, I will go and choose the best method and start solving it step by step,” she said.
Charlotte said she sees mathematics as something enjoyable rather than a burden.
“Mathematics is fun for me. Some questions are hard, but I like solving them,” she said.
Her passion for the subject has also extended to social media, where she shares lessons with other children.
Charlotte said her mother created a platform for her to share her knowledge with other young learners.
“My mum created another platform for me to share what I know to other children. I feel very happy and proud of myself,” she said.
Her father also spoke about Charlotte’s dedication to mathematics, saying she spends much of her time learning and reading.
“She’s always with mathematics. Every time, she’s always learning, reading every time,” he said.
However, he noted that despite her strong academic interest, Charlotte remains a child who also enjoys playing.
“So she’s a child and she’s still nine years old. Sometimes she plays, but when it comes to reading, she doesn’t joke with it,” he said.
Charlotte’s mathematics teacher described her as an exceptional student with a strong passion for solving mathematical problems.
“She is a brilliant and erudite student. Before taking someone as erudite, that means that person has exceptional skills in Mathematics,” the teacher said.
The teacher added that Charlotte’s enthusiasm for mathematics sets her apart from other students.
“She has passion for solving mathematical problems. In all, she is an excellent and outstanding student,” the teacher said.
The teacher also called for greater support for children with exceptional academic abilities, including access to qualified teachers, scholarships and adequate funding.
“If you want students to have interest in mathematics, secure the services of qualified teachers, give them scholarships and proper funding,” the teacher said.
While Charlotte has gained attention online for her ability to explain mathematical concepts, descriptions of her as a “maths genius” should be understood as a media or social-media label, rather than a formally established assessment of her abilities.
For other children who struggle with mathematics, Charlotte has a simple message: practise, learn from mistakes and never give up.
“My advice to them is to never give up. They should keep practising every day and don’t be afraid of mistakes,” she said.
Credit: punchng.com
