Reply to ES math- when do kids learn multiplication/division

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Yes math moved very slowly until about 4th grade and then it picked up pace.
Arrays are stupid and more confusing for smart kids than actual multiplication. Many problems emphasizing how multiplication is repeated addition are confusing too.
Just teach your kid multiplication the old way and don’t make them complete the nonsense in their workbooks if they already know what they are doing. 
Move quickly to standard algorithm for all 4 math operations and to fractions, including operations with them, transforming irregular to regular and fractions to decimals and back. Learn place value and why in standard algorithm it is vital to put place values under each other. 
Kids don’t get enough time to understand it in 4th grade, so give yours a head start [/quote]

Do not listen to this advice. Students need to understand arrays in order to pass the tests. And guess what? We've evolved as humans! Some students learn better using arrays...some learn better using repeated addition...and yes, some learn better using good old fashioned multiplication. The point is, not everyone learns the same. Sorry you're stuck in a mentality where you think what you learned is better...great. But don't advise other people when you don't have a clue how it works. [/quote]

Agree do not do this.  Not only will students need to understand these concepts to pass grade level test, understanding the multiple different ways not only helps solve problems different ways but allows kids to THINK about problems differently and ensures concrete understanding of math.  These are critical when you get to upper level math.

Everybody thinks their kid is super quick and understands it all until presented with word problems, mixed fractions, and oh Alg II.  Then, expensive tutors come out.[/quote]
Everything has trade-offs. By spending so much time on multiple approaches and conceptual understanding of arithmetic, some kids don't get enough time on math facts and standard procedures. Also, by moving so slowly in early elementary, less time is available in upper elementary and middle school for more challenging concepts. Plenty of kids have difficulties down the road due to these latter issues as well.[/quote]

I’m not convinced this is true given county and state MCAP scores.  Further, there are plenty of kids each year who undertake compacted math, and a large number of kids are taking Alg1 by 8th. The courses don’t need to move quicker they need additional depth and review.[/quote]

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