Indicates that there has been a lot of work done and that a great deal needs to be done in the future to explore the world of children's early number. Discusses the counting, the use of algorithm, practical mathematics, the use of manipulatives, individual differences and pedagogical concerns, and classroom applications. Contains 18 references.…

Compares the approaches to teaching division in Britain and in Holland where different emphasis is placed on the development of mental and written methods. Describes how it is common for pupils in Britain to work from an early stage with pencil and paper rather than mentally whereas early emphasis is placed on mental strategies in Holland. (ASK)

Work with recurring decimals provides pupils with an opportunity for exploration and examination of a wide variety of mathematical ideas and strategies. Examples of work done by one group of pupils who were presented with an opportunity to explore such decimals is featured. (MP)

An attempt is made to show that algebra is rarely obvious, and merely expecting children to learn rules is an oversimplification. Sections cover: (1) The Non-visual Nature of Algebra; (2) The Apparently Arbitrary Nature of Algebra; (3) The Relationship Between Symbolism, System and Question; (4) The Complex Nature of Algebra; and (5) Some…

Described is a way to use knots to relate a three-dimensional object to a two-dimensional representation of the object. The results are used to produce an algorithm or rule to explain a general case. Included are examples, diagrams, procedures, and explanations. (KR)

Describes activities in a mathematics class for six-year-olds. The article makes several points, including: working independently is very absorbing; investigative work is as important as algorithms; and children working in groups can achieve more than even the brightest child working alone. (PK)

The author advocates a return to "traditional" elementary algebra content. Several roles for algebra manipulation are identified, including making arithmetic more interesting and understandable and providing facility indispensable for both the technician and the mathematician. (PK)

The first aim in school might be to help children become more aware of the algorithmic processes they use; then, ensure that they can devise algorithms and define them. Many examples of how these aims can be met are given, including the use of calculators and computers. (MNS)

Algorithmic and investigative approaches to mathematics are compared and discussed. Their mutually contradictory spirit is explored. Examples of the application of each method to a mathematics problem are presented. (CW)

Proposed is a way for teachers to distinguish between rich, challenging material that encourages mathematical thinking and material that is unsuitable. Included are multistep problems that encourage a broader understanding of mathematics. (KR)

Described are four classroom activities that may be interspersed into a curriculum or offered as homework. Systematic procedures, alternative strategies, and trial and error are emphasized in these counting exercises. (KR)