Common Core Math: What Parents Need to Know
What Is Common Core Math?
Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are educational standards adopted by most US states. They emphasize:
- Conceptual understanding (the "why")
- Procedural fluency (the "how")
- Real-world application
- Mathematical reasoning
Why Does Math Look Different Now?
Traditional: Memorize procedures → Get the answer Common Core: Understand the concept → Multiple strategies → Efficient procedure
That "weird" method your child is using? It's building number sense and understanding.
Example: Addition
Traditional: Stack vertically, carry the one
47 + 38 = 85 (carry the 1 from 7+8=15)
Common Core might include:
- Number line: Jump from 47, add 30 (to 77), add 8 (to 85)
- Decomposing: 47 + 38 = 47 + 3 + 35 = 50 + 35 = 85
- Place value: 40 + 30 = 70, 7 + 8 = 15, 70 + 15 = 85
All get the same answer! The "extra" methods build understanding.
Example: Multiplication
Traditional: Memorize 7 × 8 = 56
Common Core might include:
- Arrays: Draw 7 rows of 8 dots
- Area model: Rectangle with sides 7 and 8
- Decomposition: 7 × 8 = 7 × 4 × 2 = 28 × 2 = 56
- Skip counting: Count by 7s eight times
How to Help (Even If It's Confusing)
Don't say: "That's not how I learned it" Do say: "Show me how your teacher does it"
Don't: Teach your way exclusively Do: Learn their methods and support them
Don't: Get frustrated Do: Ask the teacher for resources
The Standard Algorithm Still Exists
Common Core DOES teach traditional algorithms — typically in:
- Multi-digit addition: Grade 4
- Multi-digit subtraction: Grade 4
- Multi-digit multiplication: Grade 5
- Long division: Grade 6
The earlier grades build understanding; the algorithms come later.
Resources for Parents
- Your child's textbook (most have parent guides)
- Khan Academy (free videos on Common Core standards)
- Your teacher (most are happy to explain their methods)
The Goal Is Understanding
A child who understands WHY the algorithm works will:
- Remember it better
- Make fewer mistakes
- Catch their own errors
- Apply math in new situations
The temporary "confusion" leads to deeper, lasting understanding.