One of the most frequent comments we get from parents is that math is “so different” now. Time and time again parents feel as if they can’t support their child with math, because it is entirely a “new” approach. Before you throw in the towel and hire a math tutor, it may be comforting to know that this “new math” being taught in schools is not so different from the “old school” way. Here is what you need to know to better support (or just chat math with) your child. 

What is different about how kids learn math now?

The underlying difference between math “back then” and “new math” lies in the difference between formulas and algorithms (the old way) and conceptual understanding (the new way). In general, contemporary math instruction in elementary school focuses on number sense, pattern making, and representing your work in ways that demonstrate your understanding of “how numbers work.”  “New math” strategies rely on kids using “friendly numbers” or “landmark numbers” (typically numbers that are multiples of 10) as a basis for computation. 

A common example? Breaking numbers apart by place value for multi-digit addition or subtraction (and using a number line as a visual representation). Instead of approaching subtraction as the taking away of one number from another, students may approach it as finding the difference (or distance) between two numbers (see below).  

More Similarities than Differences:

The good news? Math has not actually changed. No matter the approach you are taking, the underlying concept behind the strategy is our base ten system for numbers and the basic idea of place value. The formulas and algorithms you are most likely familiar with are just more abstract representations of the same strategies and procedures your kids are learning in school. Once students grasp the underlying concepts, or the how and why of math computations, they are “ready” for algorithms that represent their thinking more abstractly (and more efficiently). 

When you put “new math” and “old school math” notations side by side, you can easily notice the commonalities:

Why “New Math”?

Yes, “new math” is frustrating to parents. Yes, it often requires more steps, more written work (and even drawings?!), and, therefore, more time. Why bother with all this other stuff, when the formulas are easy and faster? In short, here is why:

• Reinforcing conceptual approaches to solving problems means that once kids are ready for the algorithm it will be easier for them to remember and they will be less likely to make mistakes

• Thinking about problems before just solving them reinforces skills that will support kids with more complex, abstract, multistep, problems in later grades

• Practicing creative and flexible approaches to solving problems supports persistence through challenging math tasks 

• Visual representations engage students and make confusing, overwhelming, tasks, more concrete and easier to understand

• It won’t slow them down. Kids will still acquire the tried and true formulas and algorithms at a developmentally appropriate time (this time is still in elementary school!)

BetterEd can demystify math and so many other parts of your child’s education. You know your child, we know education. Sign up for a free 15 minute consultation below or contact us for more information.