The way that worked was the "look it's a scam. Math is math as
  long as you get it right. Give the teacher what they want to see
  so they can show the principal who can show the board so they
  can get money for the school. Tying system together and how he
  fits in helped it "click" for him when he was 9. (He knew scams
  and systems from online Mmos he plays) and then he was able to
  do the work on two levels. His way that gets the right answer
  and then whatever the lesson is about. Works for As for him at
  least.