re: (Not Common Core)-- Why are they teaching math this way?

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Or simply answering 100% of the questions correct.

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Problem is, the correct answer isn't what is being tested. It's the understanding of a concept that is being tested gauged by ability to perform operations and follow instructions. I agree that they're stupid. But given the system we work in, it's necessary. With a private tutor or home education, it would make very much sense that he not be required to show his work once understanding was determined by the teacher to have been achieved. But on a 20-30-student per teacher level, I don't see that as possible. The ones who get it early remain annoyed. The ones who get it late held them up but eventually catch up. I can't say that it's not a good system. Bringing the bottom of education up (grade school level) is probably worth more of our teacher'a time and tax dollars than nurturing the top.