> Empirically, it seems that drilling basic arithmetic and then multiplication tables early in pre K and earlier elementary will give students a better intuitiv

> Empirically, it seems that drilling basic arithmetic and then multiplication tables early in pre K and earlier elementary will give students a better intuitive math foundation to do algebra very well. This aspect of the Common Core was about recognizing deficits in conceptual understanding resulting from rote methods of drilling arithmetic. The empirical evidence is the opposite of OP's assertion, but the end point of giving students a better intuitive foundation for higher level math is indeed the goal! Signed, An elementary school math teacher who has studied the 60 years of math reform in America, internationally, and worked very hard to ensure all students have a foundation to succeed in higher level mathematics