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Common Core Math Homework

Students, Teachers, Common Core

Read Parent's Facebook Response to 'Ridiculous' Common Core Math Homework


A Facebook update from a father frustrated with the Common Core math program at his son's school is making the Internet rounds after the father Jeff Severt expressed (via what looks like a kid's homework assignment) how convoluted the teaching approach is.


The worksheet posted to Facebook shows the elaborate Common Core (CC) formula for solving a math problem (as opposed to the simple strategy of subtracting the smaller number from the larger one).  It instructs the student to explain why a fictional kid named "Jack" should be using common core strategies to solve the problem: “Jack used the number line below to solve 427 - 316.  Find his error.  Then write a letter to Jack telling him what he did right, and what he should do to fix his mistake.”


Severt's response reads, “Dear Jack, Don’t feel bad.  I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electronics Engineering, which included extensive study in differential equations and other higher math applications.  Even I cannot explain the Common Core mathematics approach, nor get the answer correct.  In the real world, simplification is valued over complication.  Therefore, 427 - 316 = 111.  The answer is solved in under 5 seconds — 111.  The process used is ridiculous and would result in termination if used.  Sincerely, Frustrated Parent.”




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