I need some help/strategies from the experienced moms here. DD, a young 4th grader was upset today because of math class. She has done long division for a long time. When she asked me how to do it (last summer I think) I showed her the way I was taught. Now her teacher has taught a different way that is much longer, but I'm sure there is a reason why this is the way she wants it done. From day one, DD used "her" way, came up with an answer instantly and teacher would say: "it's the right answer, but how did you get it?". DD sees this other method as long, unnecessary and refuses to do it. Also, teacher insists on leaving a remainder, DD wants to figure out answers to X number of decimals. This "tension" bothers DD as she feels that she is right, but also wants to please her teacher.
I understand why she needs to follow procedure and maybe this builds on something later. But as she has clearly mastered the topic, I understand her frustration going over something familiar time and again. SO what do I tell her, how should she handle it at school? I can't wait for the EXPLORE test, maybe that will help us advocate for her, but for now she needs to manage the situation in the classroom.
