A few years ago while on a shuttle to speak at a math convention, I started talking to a young man next to me. When he found out I was involved in math, he said he could solve story problems as long as someone told him what operation to use. The … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Problem Solving
understanding math
Dr. Cotter on Division
Long division used to be considered the ultimate goal of arithmetic. An earlier division algorithm was so complicated it wasn’t taught until college. Today some students learn a mnemonic in order to remember what to do when in the long division … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Division
Dr. Cotter on Measurements
Measurement is an application of math that is an important part of everyday life. We measure length, area, volume, mass (weight), temperature, time, angles, and many other attributes. For more than simple comparisons, we need numbers and a basic … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Measurements
Dr. Cotter on Multiplication
Multiplication has been the mathematical downfall of many children (and adults!). It's not so much the problem of the algorithms, but rather it's the problem of the memorization of the 100 facts. Before expecting the child to learn the facts, we … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Multiplication
2023 Summer Game #9: Money War
Editor's note: Beth Reid is our Canadian blogger. Today's game is Money War, Canadian style. For your non-Canadians, don't worry. This game is totally applicable to you too. Enjoy!! Let’s start this blog post with a mini-quiz. So, how much is … [Read more...] about 2023 Summer Game #9: Money War
2023 Summer Game #6: Quotient and Remainder
Question: How do you divide 14 potatoes between 4 people? Answer: Mash them. Hahahaha! Most children do not enjoy solving division problems – especially problems with remainders! However, the Quotient and Remainder game found in the Math Card … [Read more...] about 2023 Summer Game #6: Quotient and Remainder
