Hello everyone,
Recently, while browsing the internet, I came across an article written by university mathematics professors reflecting on the current middle school math curriculum. The article is titled “Why Is It Your Job to Teach Your Kid Math?”
In the article, the authors describe how they were helping their own children make sense of the various alternative methods used in schools today for basic arithmetic—for example, using grids, blocks, counters, or paper strips to perform operations with fractions. The professors realized that many children could not navigate the confusion caused by switching between so many methods. They eventually started a small math club at home to help not only their own children, but also friends’ and neighbors’ children, understand the material more clearly.
If you are interested in reading the article, here is the link:
http://www.macleans.ca/society/life/have-you-finished-your-homework-mom/
I understand that curriculum developers intended to support different learning styles by introducing multiple strategies for the same operation. The intention is good.
However, I do not understand why students are tested on their ability to use and explain all of these methods. In mathematics, it is essential to perform arithmetic confidently, accurately, and efficiently. The choice of method should belong to the student—whichever approach feels intuitive and clear to them.
From my tutoring experience, I have consistently found that classical, “old-fashioned” methods are often the most straightforward for students to grasp and apply reliably.
One topic taught in Grades 7 and 8 where this issue often appears is operations with integers. Students are frequently encouraged to use many different visual or procedural methods, which can become overwhelming. I have found that students understand integer addition and subtraction best when using a simple, clear number line—the way many of us learned it.
I have summarized this method in a short, easy-to-follow explanation. If you, like the authors of the article, want to help your child avoid confusion and learn how to add and subtract integers confidently, you can download and use it.
It is very important that students understand integer operations without a calculator before entering high school. This skill is used throughout all high school mathematics.