It's More than an Algorithm

From the desk of Carol C…

When I think of math, especially in elementary school, I think of trying to memorize the multiplication tables in fourth grade.  It was difficult for me to commit these facts to memory despite daily practice with flashcards and worksheets.  When I finally learned all of the facts, I didn’t have a clue what it all meant except I passed multiplication.

Advance to 2013 and the common core.  The math curriculum now emphasizes problem solving and developing a deep understanding of the way numbers work…number sense.  How do we know when students have developed a deep understanding of a mathematical concept?  When they are able to justify their answers and show different ways to solve the same problem. 

One example of this is learning to subtract solely by being able to recite the algorithm. 

                1 13     1 13      5 11 13

  623      623    623       623

-199      -199   -199     -199

                              4    424

While at some point students will have to memorize math facts, they are expected to use strategies they have already learned to create an understanding of say subtraction.  There is a huge difference in understanding between an eight year old who is only able to recite the algorithm shown above and one who is able to explain the math behind this algorithm and then solve the problem in a variety of ways.  The child who can explain and/or solve a math problem in a variety of ways has a better chance of succeeding at a more difficult problem such as 54,362 – 5,985.  Mathematical understanding and skill are at the heart of the math common core standards.

Now let’s leave the classroom and look at the work world.  Pretend I own a company which develops airplane parts.  My employees must figure out how much money the company should put into developing a more gas efficient engine to yield the company more revenue.  There are lots of ways to go about solving this problem, and at least one solution will be the answer.  Employees who have a strong number sense will most likely be able to solve this problem and others more accurately and efficiently than those who have only memorized algorithms.   

Problems differ, but they all call for solutions.  To be competitive in tomorrow’s world, the business leaders of today have made it clear they need better problem-solvers than ever before.  Today we know not everybody learns in the same way.  The common core curriculum is based on  knowing a variety of methods to try to reach a solution.   This in turn increases our chances of success and helps us connect new learning to something we already know.  Our brains actually grow new pathways when we make connections.  In this way students are being set up to be better problem solvers in an ever changing world.