Contextual approach in teaching mathematics: an example using the sum of series of positive integers

In this paper, a contextual approach to teaching Mathematics at the pre-university level is recommended, and an example is illustrated. A context in the form of a real common mathematical problem is presented to the students. Different approaches to tackle the problem (from topics within and outside the syllabus) can be elicited from students. The insight obtained from the various methods of solving the problem can be used to deepen students’ learnt concepts and to enhance concepts to be learnt later in the curriculum.