post
BLOG AND NEWS

“That’s not how I learned it!” | Making Sense of Common Core Math

Sep 22, 2017
 
 

After growing up doing math problems on a chalkboard, being immersed in the world of iPads and Chromebooks can be daunting to parents. Add to that the Common Core Standards for math that involve “decomposing” and “anchoring,” and many adults are finding themselves overwhelmed and befuddled when it comes to trying to help tackle math homework or encourage their struggling elementary schooler.

 

What Is Common Core?

 

  • A framework rather than a curriculum: individual schools and teachers decide the day-to-day lesson plans

 

  • Focuses on developing critical thinking rather than memorization

 

  • Incorporates “traditional” math (i.e. 3 x 6 or 134-96) after exploring other methods for problem solving

 

  • Emphasizes number sense and mental math to help students prepare for college and the “real world”

 

Example: Rethinking Multiplication

 

The traditional algorithm for multiplication, often called the “longform” method, involves starting with the ones place and multiplying from right to left while using place holders and carrying. This method can be completed through rote memorization, which means you can complete the steps without picturing what you’re actually doing when you multiply.

 

Common Core Math utilizes the “box” or “grid” method. Here, students separate multi-digit factors into parts (63 becomes 60 and 3) and place them into boxes they have drawn. After multiplying each factor, you simply add all of the numbers together to arrive at the answer.

 

How Can You Help?

 

  • Start with what’s easiest for your child. Let them feel some success and momentum before diving into what’s challenging.

 

  • Ask, “Can you help me picture ________?” (i.e. how to decompose the number 12) Beginning with a question can help diffuse any frustration for both of you about methods that he’s learning and you aren’t yet familiar with. If your child is able to explain the concepts to you, he likely has a solid foundation.

 

  • Offer praise to your student for showing their work — whether or not the answer is correct! A Common Core assignment may only have five problems, but the expectation often is to be able to solve those problems in a variety of ways.

 

  • Build in breaks. If your child has trouble focusing for long periods of time, they may get frustrated with having to complete so many steps per problem. Set a time for 10-15 minutes and encourage them to get up and stretch, have a snack or chat about something that’s not math-related.

 

  • Have “real world” math conversations throughout your daily life. Talk about how much change you get after you’ve paid at the grocery store or ask what fraction of pizza is left. Developing real-world critical thinking and application to math is a large focus of the Common Core practices.

 

What if She’s Falling Behind?

 

If it seems like your child isn’t “getting it” the way her peers are, it can be helpful to reach out to her teacher. Feel free to ask what the goals of the unit are, if what you’re seeing during homework matches what your student is able to do in class and if there are any resources or tutors she recommends.

 

While the goal of Common Core math is to build critical thinking and math sense, a student may still struggle if she has a weakness in concept imagery, or the ability to image and verbalize the concepts underlying math processes. Click here to learn more about how to build and strengthen concept imagery for math skills with On Cloud Nine math.

 

Contact your local Lindamood-Bell Learning Center to find out more about math instruction.

 

Connect with us
🌞 Now Hiring for Summer!
Are you energetic, positive, and passionate about helping students succeed? Join Lindamood-Bell as a tutor (clinician) and make a difference this summer!
📚 What You’ll Do:
 —Teach students of all ages to read and comprehend to their potential
 —Receive paid training in our evidence-based approach
 —Work in a fun, supportive learning environment
🌟 Apply today and be part of something meaningful! View our open positions at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Is your child facing challenges in reading, comprehension, or math? Our evidence-based instruction can help them catch up or get ahead.
✅ Personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your child’s needs
✅ Available in-person or live online for flexibility
✅ Proven success with students facing learning challenges like dyslexia, autism, and ADHD
👉 Visit our website to learn more and take the first step toward your child’s success!
Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial
📚 Small Groups, Big Impact! ✨
👩‍🏫 For Educators: Small-group instruction allows you to give targeted support, increase student engagement, and tailor lessons to individual needs.
👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents: At Lindamood-Bell Learning Centers, your child can get the same great results at over 40% off individual instruction! 🎯 Our small-group instruction offers high-quality, evidence-based learning at a more affordable price.
Discover why small groups are a game-changer! Read more at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make a Difference This Summer! 🌞📚
Looking for a rewarding summer job? Lindamood-Bell is hiring enthusiastic and positive individuals to work as clinicians (tutors)! Join our team and help students build essential learning skills in a supportive, engaging environment.
If you’re passionate about education and ready to make an impact, apply today!
View Open Positions - Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎧
In this inspiring episode, we meet Ben, a student whose life was transformed by Lindamood-Bell instruction. Once the kid everyone laughed at during read-alouds, Ben shares his powerful journey of overcoming school challenges and gaining confidence. With Lindamood-Bell’s support, he not only improved his reading and comprehension but also cleared the path toward his dream career in the culinary arts! 🍴✨
Don’t miss Ben’s heartfelt story of resilience and success—tune in now! 🎙️ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Attention, Teachers! 🎓 At Lindamood-Bell, our evidence-based approach helps educators develop their students' essential sensory-cognitive skills, laying the foundation for lasting academic success. Discover how our unique multi-sensory techniques can elevate your teaching and unlock student potential! Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make an Impact This Summer – We're Hiring at Lindamood-Bell!

Looking for a meaningful summer job? Join our team and help students build learning skills and confidence! We're hiring enthusiastic, positive individuals to work in our learning centers. As a Clinician (Tutor), you'll receive paid training using our proven, evidence-based approach!

📌 Apply today and make a difference!
🔗 View our open positions and get started! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Experience a school that fits your child’s unique learning needs! 🌟 Lindamood-Bell Academy is a K-12 private school that combines our renowned sensory-cognitive instruction with a personalized curriculum and a supportive learning environment. With the flexibility to attend online or in person, students can thrive in a way that works best for them! 🎓✨ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoobellofficial.
Did you know some people can’t visualize images in their minds? This condition, known as aphantasia, affects an estimated 2-5% of the population.
At Lindamood-Bell, we use evidence-based instruction to help students of all ages develop concept imagery—the ability to create mental images. Learn more about aphantasia and how we support students.
🔗 Read the full article at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Help your child build skills and confidence with Lindamood-Bell! 
Our evidence-based instruction helps learners of all ages improve reading, comprehension, and math, whether online or in person.

🌟 Limited-Time Offer: Enroll now and save 10% on live online instruction!
Don’t wait—give your child the tools to succeed today! 💻📚 Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
We’re Hiring for Summer!

Looking for a rewarding summer job? Join our learning centers as a Clinician (Tutor) and help students thrive. Enjoy paid training in our proven, evidence-based approach. Apply today! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
The Science of Reading is transforming literacy instruction—but is it enough?

At Lindamood-Bell, we integrate the Cognitive Science of Learning to strengthen the sensory-cognitive skills crucial for fluent reading and comprehension. Our evidence-based approach develops symbol imagery for decoding and concept imagery for understanding—key components often overlooked in traditional literacy methods.

Visit our blog to explore the Science of Reading and discover how the Cognitive Science of Learning sets Lindamood-Bell apart. 
Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Join Us This Summer—We're Hiring!
Looking for a meaningful summer job? Our learning centers are seeking enthusiastic, positive individuals to help students thrive. As a Clinician (Tutor), you'll receive paid training in our proven, evidence-based programs.
Explore our open positions and apply today!
Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
📢 Roan and Sammy’s Story Featured in People Magazine!

Roan, a student with dyslexia, was determined to learn to read so he could share stories with his beloved service dog, Sammy. With Lindamood-Bell’s online instruction, he turned that dream into reality! 🐶📖✨

Now, their heartwarming journey is inspiring readers everywhere. ❤️
Read more on our blog, including the latest People magazine feature. Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Request Information

Request Information

When you complete our form, we'll send you to our digital information packet and reach out to you shortly.
You may also call us at

* required

Schedule a Learning
Ability Evaluation

Please fill out the form and we will be in touch to schedule an evaluation.

* required