More than one right answer, more than one right method. While those tasks make sense for 5th graders, kindergartners—and even preschoolers—can learn math through problem solving, Boaler said.

RI EDUCATION Schools are teaching math word problems all wrong. But some educators have found a better way. In Central Falls, R.I., teachers are trying new strategies that move away from focusing ...

The process you use to solve a real world math problem can be just as important as arriving at the correct answer, said Robbi Berry, who teaches 5th grade in Las Cruces, N.M.