Why Is Math Taught So Differently Today?

We often get questions from parents about why we teach math differently than they used to ("Back when we were kids").  If it was good enough for me, why isn't it good enough for them? That is a great question.

This guy does a great job explaining this, comparing the standard multiplication algorithm to a couple of modern methods.  The standard algorithm is often a little more efficient and it does work consistently.  However, it really just is a matter of following directions (the steps) and doesn't help students build an understanding of the math.

What I saw when I worked with middle school students was that those students who had been great at the standard algorithm in elementary school but didn't really understand what was going on with the math began to fall apart when it came to more complex thinking and problem solving in middle school math.  We want our kids to really understand the math to build a foundation for success later on.  Once they understand it then they can choose to use a more efficient method for calculating a correct answer.


Why is Math Different Now from raj shah on Vimeo.

We expect that many more of our current students will go beyond the levels of math that were required for us when we were kids.  Many of the best-paying jobs in their future look like they will  require a higher level of math skill than we had when we were kids.

Thanks to Mrs. Knowlton for the tip on this video.