A great downfall of modern mathematics is the failure to link it to any sort of reality. This produces the great lack of ability to apply the mathematics beyond the classroom in which it is learned. It also produces the lack of ability to do word problems that do not fit previously memorized formats.
Many students can multiply, or at least do multiplication on their calculators.
Very few can describe the reality that multiplication represents. Perhaps it will show students that math is not separate from reality. It is not a world of its own. Math applies to all worlds. Be sure to include your name and affiliation.