I’m terrible at math. I generally hate math (thanks to a horrific seventh grade math teacher). Despite those two things, I find that I’m a really successful math teacher. Probably because I can figure out a dozen ways to tackle any math problem. This is a technique that I used in the classroom and completely forgot about until I saw this video floating around Facebook. This teacher-geek LOVES “alternative” ways to do math. It doesn’t have to be hard and it doesn’t have to be scary.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AJvshZmYPs?rel=0&w=480&h=360]
This technique works because it does on paper what we’re doing in our head (or with out fingers). It keeps track of the ones (on the right) the tens (in the middle) and the hundreds (on the far left). It’s not successful for very large numbers (in fact, I wouldn’t advise using it over 99). However, it is a BRILLIANT tool for use as a parent when checking homework (ahem, you ARE checking the homework, right? 🙂 ) or to teach to a kiddo who works fast-n-sloppy, or any kiddo who doesn’t remember to carry “remainders”, as well as a general “self check” method.
Remember, that your child’s teacher will likely want to see “work” so that they can follow along with the student’s thought process and trouble shoot before bad habits are formed. As a teacher, I just wanted to see some sort of logic and some kind of thinking other than finger counting! Also, never be afraid to go back to the classroom and have your child’s teacher explain the “new” methods to you. You might find one that flips a switch!
