[kipra]

As an elementary math coach and intervention teacher I question the wisdom in teaching the US standard algorithms for addition and subtraction to whole classes of 2nd or 3rd students. Many students are still formulating their understanding of the Base 10 system. To teach them the way we were all taught causes confusion in many students I work with. Unfortunately much math instruction is still teacher-centered as opposed to student-centered. I think it’s perfectly acceptable for teachers to meet with small groups of 2nd or 3rd graders that have STRONG base 10 understandings and demonstrate the US algorithms (chances are their parents already have) in that small group. What upsets me is students trying to use these procedures with no deep understanding of them. Subtraction, in particular, is a weakness for my 3rd, 4th and 5th graders! They make a royal mess of ungrouping, especially across zeroes. I appreciate the fluency for addition and subtraction being addressed in the 4th grade. Now if I could just convince 2nd and 3rd grade teachers to spend a lot more time with base ten manipulatives, drawings, expanded methods ,etc!, and let 4th grade teachers connect these models to the shortened US algorithm.

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