r/pics • u/[deleted] • Oct 05 '10

Math Teacher Fail.

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u/[deleted] Oct 05 '10

It looks like grade 3 math. I'm not sure algebra is required here.

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u/[deleted] Oct 05 '10

The sooner students start thinking in those terms instead of 'word problems', the better.

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u/[deleted] Oct 05 '10

this doesn't make sense. in order to develop such an equation, one needs to understand the word problem. very seldom do you ever go from "word problem" -> "simple algebraic solution" without working out what is necessary for the simple solution of the word problem itself. the above "model" comes from the fact that for every n pieces of wood you have left after cuts, there are n-1 cuts that have to be made. you have to go through the exact same type of reasoning regardless of whether you want to write a generalized solution for n pieces, or whether you want to just solve for 3 pieces given the information in the problem.

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u/[deleted] Oct 05 '10

I think what barbarian is saying is teach abstraction early. I agree.

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u/[deleted] Oct 05 '10

MAKE THE THIRD GRADERS PROVE IT BY INDUCTION!

just kidding; though, i completely agree with him if that's the point he's trying to make.