The word "correct" is used often above. What does it mean? Were 5th grade students previously not taught to multiply fractions using the formula
a/b * c/d = (a*c)/(b*d) ?
Wu's point is that students are made to memorize an algorithm, rather than being taught why it works and how it fits into the bigger picture.
Frankly, those that needed to memorize the algorithm never understood the two arithmetic operations of multiplication and division properly - it has nothing to do with fractions per se.
I agree with Dr Wu IFF all he IS saying is that at each stage, a solid conceptual understanding needs to be there before the next stage is introduced and acceleration for its own sake should not be considered without proof that that understanding is there. That is real rigor and I fully support THAT.
However, has anyone here actually corresponded with Dr Wu to confirm that that is what he means?
From the little that have read from links posted here his words could be interpreted either way and most of us know how many school administrators will interpret them...
