Learning New Ways!!!

          In this week's session, we learned new methods of solving the four basic operations in math: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. We were all able to see 4 different methods of completing questions of each mathematical concept. After completing the various sample questions, I discovered that I use traditional methods for completing questions in all four concepts. However by the end of this session, I was very intrigued by some new methods I had never seen before.

          The first method I found interesting was solving subtraction problems. This method is called the Singapore Method. Instead of using the traditional method of regrouping, this method allows students to subtract the tens place of a number first in order to get the bottom number that is being subtracted to zero. I believe this method will help students a great deal if they are unable to grasp the concept of regrouping. In the image below, the four types of methods are demonstrated; with the Singapore method being visualized in the bottom left corner.  Since the first number to being the subtraction is 0, an individual using the traditional method would borrow from the number on the left. However, with this method, one subtracts the bottom number, in this case 6, from both numbers. This will ensure the bottom number to end in a 0; making it easier for the student to complete the subtraction.

Pagliaro, Teressa-Marie. Instructor's Photo. Image of instructor's slide. Retrieved from Teresa-Marie Pagliaro's photos. 

          The second method that struck my interest was solving multiplication problems using the Multiplying Lines method. Instead of using the traditional multiplication methods, using one's basic times tables skills, students draw a series of lines to obtain the same answers. I found this method extremely interesting due to the fact that it is a new perspective of looking at multiplication. The following link will give a demonstration of how this method is done.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AJvshZmYPs

          Overall, I believe teachers should always keep an open mind to different teaching methods. Each student learns in a different way. Therefore, we should all as educators keep an open mind to new ideas in order to create a comfortable learning environment for students.