Comments on: Introducing the Distributive Property

By: Tessa

Tessa — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 10:28:55 +0000

In reply to Kathleen Block. Yes, absolutely. We definitely work with two-step equations such as that. I have not ever shown the kids that those two represent the same thing, however. I will note, I've never seen one of my mass produced curriculums do so, either.

By: Kathleen Block

Kathleen Block — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 17:38:40 +0000

I am also a little worried that calling this the distributive property now will be confusing to them when they get older. I agree that it would be more cohesive if 5X7, for example was rewritten first as 5 x (3+4), which is the same as (5×3) + (5×4). I am curious if third graders would be able to handle this progression? I am a high school math teacher. Thanks in advance for your input!

By: Tessa

Tessa — Mon, 14 Sep 2020 00:42:01 +0000

In reply to Robert. I hope it helps your kids understand it. It's certainly helped mine!

By: Robert

Robert — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 23:03:00 +0000

Thank you for this! I have struggled with teaching the Distributive Property for the past three years, and I can’t wait to use this in class tomorrow!

By: Tessa

Tessa — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 04:05:39 +0000

In reply to Alexis. Thank you for the support.