Dear Generalizers,

We look for patterns. We check to see if the pattern always holds true. If it does, we come up with a rule to express the pattern. And then we share it with the world. That’s how math works.

In finding fractions of whole numbers, a pattern is very clear. There’s an easy shortcut. In the past, students only learned the shortcut. Now, we teach you to understand why the shortcut works. That’s so you can come up with your own shortcuts later in life.

Because if you only know other people’s shortcuts, that’s no shortcut at all.

Sincerely,

Mr. Heimbuck