During this distance learning journey, many parents are confused by the “new way” of teaching and learning math – commonly referred to as “common core math.” Although at first glance common core math seems overwhelming, this way of doing math is actually a lot simpler than you think. In short, common core math means that children are taught several ways to solve the same math problem.
Common Core Math – The Basics
By teaching kids several ways to solve math problems and giving them different skills, they’re more likely to understand math in a way that’s best for them. When you think about it that way, it makes a lot of sense. Every child is unique and has their own way of absorbing and processing information. Math has always been one of those subjects that some kids seem to take to easily, while others need more time to work out problems.
Most teachers like the idea that when a math problem is presented to a child, they can solve it the way that they want. This is helpful to those students who need to find the answer in a different way, because rote is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Most of us parents were taught one, rote way to do math problems and calculations. That’s why common core math seems so confusing! But, if parents take a little time to understand common core math, they might even start to appreciate it.
How to Teach Common Core Math
There are a number of different teaching strategies at your disposal when you get ready to teach kids common core math skills. To help kids find out what problem-solving methods work best for them, you can give them several types of common core math activities. You can use teaching tools that give kids several methods at once. This way, they can pick ones that appeal to them naturally.
Scaffolding Math Problems
For younger children, teachers often “scaffold” math problems. Here is an example of scaffolding from our scaffolded math journal
The word problem is given, but this will also work with given equations. Children then fill out all or part of the sheet to find the answer. Solving the problem in a few different ways helps children verify correct answers.
Here’s an explanation of five different ways to scaffold to help children figure out the answer to math problems or equations:
1. Number Paths
Number paths do not have zeros. They are a row of boxes with a number in each box, in sequential order. So basically, the blocks act as a type of counter.
2. Number Lines
Number lines start at zero. The numbers are usually seen on some sort of ticked lines, and the numbers may appear above or below the line. Many times students are taught to “jump” from one number to another to help them count, add, or subtract.
3. Ten Frames
A ten frame is a tool to help children see numbers in fives and tens. Without counting, the students should be able to see that if the first row is full, that means there is at least five, then they can continue counting the second row, unless they see that full as well, which means 10.
We have a ten-frame stamp that is easy to use on children’s papers.
4. Number Bonds
A number bond is another way for children to see the “part-part-whole” of the problem. The larger number holds the whole number, while the two smaller circles hold the parts that make up the whole.
5. Draw Pictures
Many kids love to draw, and this common core method combines a favorite activity with math lessons…they can simply draw circles, stars, etc. The main thing is to keep it simple!
Drawing a math problem is a big help, especially for visual learners. Children must be reminded when drawing for math, that this isn’t art class – they’re solving a problem. Instead of cats, they can simply draw circles. The main thing is to keep it simple!
Some final thoughts on common core math for parents
So, as you can see, different children will be able to complete some or all math problems using scaffolding or common core math tools. Other than these simple tools, there are other ways that children can try to solve math problems to learn what best works for them!
Our Strategies for Math Banner (shown above) can also help with the many different ways to solve math problems.
I hope that parents see that “new math” or “common core math” benefits all students. Not only will kids find a way that works for them, but they may just be able to explain their thinking as well!
By Angela French
4/23/2020
Angela French is the Senior Product Development and Content Manager at Really Good Stuff. She has worked for the company for nearly seven years and has created hundreds of resources for the classroom. She has a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. Her classroom experiences include teaching grade levels K–5 and inclusion, special education, literacy intervention, and gifted and talented programs in three different states.