A Forsyth parent sent me a copy of a note she sent to Superintendent Jeff Bearden with questions about why her young son's math was so much more complicated than it needed to be. The mom is an engineer by training.
Any math teachers willing to tackle this question?
Here is the mom’s letter and the worksheet:
Dear Dr. Bearden
I know you have a very busy job and the last thing you need is one more parent complaining. However, I am very concerned about some of the methods of teaching happening in our county.
I was reviewing my second grader’s math worksheets and came across a subtraction and addition problem. My son is doing well in math, so this isn't a parent concerned about his struggles. I like the fact the students are being taught different methods to learn. However, it appears there are strong focuses in certain areas that I have a concern.
Please see the adjacent math problem. You will notice it takes an entire page to come up with the same answer I did in a very short time. When I have my son attempt the problem the simple straightforward way, he gets
Credit: Maureen Downey
Credit: Maureen Downey
concerned he is not doing it the right way. Can you please help me understand why the district is continuing to do the base hundred/ten/one method and not the straightforward method?
I have an engineering degree, which required tons of math. Often, it would take an entire sheet of paper to work just one problem. Yet, it involved many different formulas, rules, and variables (calculus, differential equations, algebra, etc). I'm concerned about how our students are being taught the simple math when later they will be attempting the harder, more complicated math.
I assume there is data that backs up why this method of teaching math has improved results. Is there a place I can go to that shows this information?
There are many frustrated parents who share the same concerns. I believe we are ready to see and hear how we plan to move forward in the future based on data-driven results (not just trying and seeing if it is going to work out).
If there is any way I can assist in any way to help make a difference in our county, please don't hesitate to ask.
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