If you don't even know what deconstruction is, you're not alone. It's a fine math concept that can be useful to those who've already learned basic two-digit math facts, but it's not often taught in previous math standards. In common core, however, it is taught in 1st and 2nd grade ... long before two-digit math facts have been properly mastered. This leads to confusion.

We regret that our automated Refusal Letter Generator is not working at this time. It seems to have decided that too many responses have been received, which is great news for New York's children! In the meantime, please find a printable copy of our refusal letter linked below. 

To use this letter, simply print out, fill in the blanks, and mail or hand deliver to your school district. Technically, you only have to notify the local superintendent, to whom this letter is addressed. However, many parents print extra copies for the school principal and the child(ren)'s teachers, just to be sure. Although many parents report receiving requests for a meeting to discuss the refusal letter, no other steps are necessary.

The fill-in blanks on the form are as follows:

1. Date
2. Parents' Names
3. Parents' Street Address
4. Parents' City, State and Zip Code
5. School Name
6. School Street Address
7. School City, State and Zip Code
8. Superintendent's Name
9. Children's Names
10. FIVE check boxes to indicate which tests you are refusing. Please remember to check these!!!
11. Parents' Signature

And that's all there is to it!

New York State Refusal Form (Print & Fill Out)

Nowhere in the question does it say how many children Mrs. Johnson has, nor that all the muffins get eaten. Can we make an assumption about the total numbers? Yes. Are we thinking critically when we do so? No.

From a mathematical or critical thinking perspective, there are an infinite number of correct answers.

If you make assumptions you can get it down to three sets of correct answers. If you are the type of person who looks at this question and automatically makes those assumptions, you put on blinders. You have been properly trained so as to NOT think critically.

Congratulations and good luck in your cubicle career.