by Mrs. M.
Greetings! Well parents, we used to joke about math being “new math” but I’m here to tell you it really is “new” math! The math your child is learning is so very different than how you and I learned math. Computation is still a component of any mathematical problem, but the way to get there requires much more effort on your child’s part.
Today’s math requires your child to show multiple ways of achieving the answer and also to explain each detail of how your child went about solving the problem. In addition, your child is asked to include a model such as a chart, or a diagram, etc. Ask your child to show you how to solve 56 times 23. You will be amazed to see the four different ways this is done. Division is the same – multiple ways to solve a division problem.
The reason for this change is so children can better understand the reasoning behind these operations and therefore better understand the mechanics of mathematical reasoning.
You can be instrumental in helping your child at home. Give your child a math problem that requires him/her to explain the reasoning behind solving the problem. Have your child draw a picture to show the computation. Play math word games such as, “I have 85 cents. What three ways can I show that using the least amount of coins?” Or play “Measure Treasure Hunt.” Give your child a list of two or three measurements, such as 6 inches, 12 inches, and 10 centimeters. Ask your child to use a ruler and go around your home to locate items that match each measurement. Make it a game with a yummy treat for whoever can find the first five items.
For older students, look for opportunities to practice multiplication and division, such as asking your child to figure out how to equally share 16 cookies among 4 friends. Have your child draw it out on paper. Play multistep math word games such as, “My water bottle holds four cups of water. I drink two bottles a day. How many cups do I drink in 5 days?”
Feel free to speak to your child’s teacher and ask for resources you can use. Keep in mind technology is awesome in this area. Just about every strategy your child is asked to use can be found on YouTube, so don’t be afraid to check it out.
Until next month … keep smiling!
The little boy wasn’t getting good marks in school. One day he really surprised the teacher. He tapped her on the shoulder and said, “Miss M, I don’t want to scare you, but my daddy says if I don’t get better grades, somebody is going to get a spanking.”
Mrs. M. (Fran Mullen) is an educator in the Waterbury School District. She welcomes your opinions and comments. You may email her at fmull04@gmail.com.
