Math is Figure-Out-Able! cover image

Math is Figure-Out-Able!

Ep 246: Avoid the Trap of Using Less Sophisticated Reasoning

Mar 4, 2025
22:15

If a student can perform an algorithm, have they developed the mathematical reasoning that operation calls for? Or are they answer-getting? In this episode Pam and Kim discuss a major trap students fall into when we teach mathematics as a series of steps to rotely memorize. 

Talking Points:

  • A closer look at the multiplication algorithm and a major trap.
  • Problem String that helps give students a high does of patterns for a multiplicative strategy.
  • Algorithms disregard reasonableness.
  • Memorizing an algorithm is forgetable but every strategy learned helps build mental maps to the make subsequent strategies easier to develop.

Check out our social media
Twitter: @PWHarris
Instagram: Pam Harris_math
Facebook: Pam Harris, author, mathematics education
Linkedin: Pam Harris Consulting LLC 

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