SHAPING A SENSE OF PATRIOTISM AND LOVE FOR THE FATHERLAND THROUGH MATHEMATICAL TEXT PROBLEMS IN MATH IN THE NUSh

• Valerii Silkov

  Rivne State University for the Humanities

  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5905-3700

• Elvira Silkova

  Rivne State University for the Humanities

  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2595-0606

The article deals with the exploration  one of the possible ways to cultivate a sense of patriotism and love for the Homeland among primary school students within the framework of the New Ukrainian School (NUS), through the use of specially selected mathematical word problems. It is noted that these feelings can be developed not only in the course of patriotic education activities but also through the assimilation of content across various academic subjects. In particular, mathematical education is highlighted as a valuable field for achieving this goal.

The study analyzes mathematics textbooks for Grades I-4 of NUS to identify simple and compound word problems whose plots can contribute to the development of patriotic feelings. These include stories that reflect pride in the achievements of the Ukrainian people, heroes of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, volunteer efforts, and the resilience of ordinary citizens. The analysis confirms that while such tasks are present, their number remains insufficient, especially considering the urgent needs posed by the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The article emphasizes the importance of including relevant and realistic content in word problems that resonate with the experiences and emotions of modern Ukrainian children. Word problems with patriotic themes can serve a dual function: they both develop mathematical competence and form socially and morally significant qualities in students. The work includes several examples of original word problems authored by students of pedagogical universities. These problems integrate historical, civic, and military topics, reinforcing both educational and moral development.

In the current context, where traditional forms and means of education are not always sufficient, the authors stress the need for non-standard and interdisciplinary approaches to the formation of civic identity and national consciousness. The solution lies in the systematic integration of value-oriented content into the learning process, including mathematical exercises.

The conclusion outlines several practical recommendations: to prepare new editions of textbooks enriched with a significantly larger number of word problems that support the formation of patriotism and love for the homeland; to engage educational authorities and methodological services in creating relevant guidelines and collections for teachers; and to motivate educators to compose their own tasks based on local history, prominent Ukrainian personalities, and current socio-political realities.

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