Quote:
Originally posted by mattdavis11
I do it all the time when I have to do it in my head. Seems easier sometimes to multiply 6x60 and add on the twelve to get 372.
If I was asked what 15x17 was, it's easier knowing that 15 squared is 225, I then add 30 to it to get my answer.
Maybe that's the approach they have in mind, only using your mind.
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Agreed, and I use the same techniques rather often (like in the store today, adding up prices and figuring tax). It's very useful in every day situations.
That said...if schools are going to teach methods like that, it is my opinion that they need to wait until the children are of such an age that they already have a firm understanding of the basics of mathematics before they teach shortcuts. In my (very recent and still ongoing) experience, mathematics in American schools today consists of guessing, memorization, and the almighty Texas Instruments calculator.
At the High School I attended, only 2 years of Mathematics was required to graduate, but 4 years of Physical Education was required for graduation. (I went to school in one of the top ~15 richest counties in America.)
Seems like America is getting farther and farther away from the sciences and more towards....wait, what is it we're teaching kids today? Oh yea, entitlement...
Apologies for the rant.