4 ms·

I would agree with you, but I've actually seen the homework assignments and only acceptable correct answers to common core work, and it's disgusting. Trying to

• zecho 13y ago
  Depends on what the outcome of learning is supposed to be. If it is to simply recite 8, then what have you learned other than a factoid? 72 circles in 9 columns is 8 rows of circles and now you see the relationship clearly. If you rotate your grid, you have 8 columns of 9 circles. If the next question is 72/12 or 72/3 those relationships become even more apparent as the shape of the grid changes. I see no problem taking math out of abstraction in this way, especially as one moves onto visualizing more complex math. Seeing how the symbols interact with their meaning is a good thing. I recently introduced my 5 year old to Dragonbox. She picked up algebra quickly, without the formalities, of course. I was pretty amazed by how quickly she understood it, too. Playing with numbers is a really a great way to learn the meaning of formulas. There are entire schools of thought, such as Montessori, that believe numbers should be taught in this tactile way. Seeing it first hand, and comparing it to my own struggles as a child, I'm inclined to see great value in drawing 72 little circles out.
• ef4 13y ago
  Sure, but that kind of absurdity is nothing new. Most people just take the older absurdities for granted because it's all they know.