Reviews the historical use of each of the three algorithms used for subtraction in the United States: (1) the equal additions; (2) the decomposition; and (3) the Austrian method. Discusses the modification to the decomposition algorithm and gives a brief overview of the current status of subtraction algorithms. Contains 12 references. (Author/ASK)

Reviews the historical development of subtraction algorithms used in the United States. Discusses different algorithms used and developed throughout history that had a major impact on the way subtraction is taught today. (Contains 22 references.) (ASK)

Compares methods of subtraction used by children and teachers. Suggests ways to encourage children to invent their own subtraction algorithms. (CCM)

The following ideas are shared: (1) a low-stress subtraction algorithm that eliminates the traditional borrowing process, and (2) an approach to graphing circular functions that looks at the process of modifying simple functions as a series of shifting, sliding, and stretching adjustments, with its biggest advantage viewed as its generality. (MP)

A collection of games and puzzles that teachers can use to replace or supplement the usual textbook subtraction examples involving large numbers is given. Most of the nine activities are self-checking. (MNS)

Two mental algorithms, one for addition and one for subtraction, are described. It is felt such algorithms should be taught explicitly. The usual process taught for paper and pencil is seen to inhibit mental arithmetic, and a need to include mental algorithms in the regular mathematics curriculum is promoted. (MP)

Use of low-stress algorithms to reduce the cognitive load on students is advocated. The low-stress algorithm for addition developed by Hutchings is detailed first. Then a variation on the usual algorithm is proposed: adding from left to right, writing the partial sum for each stage. Next, a "quick addition" method for adding fractions proposed by…

A subtraction algorithm that does not involve borrowing is presented and called the residue method. It has been taught in junior and senior high school classes and preservice and inservice classes for teachers. The method has helped in classes where arithmetic in other bases is presented. (MP)

The author argues that children not only can but should create their own computational algorithms and that the teacher's role is "merely" to help. How children in grades K-3 add and subtract is the focus of this article. Grouping, directionality, and exchange are highlighted. (MNS)

Programing a microcomputer to solve problems in whole-number arithmetic, rather than using the built-in operations of the computer, is described. Not only useful, it also enhances important mathematical concepts and is adaptable to a range of student abilities. (MNS)

A teaching sequence providing a smooth transition from concrete materials to the subtraction algorithm is presented. (MP)

Four procedures used by children for deriving answers to unknown subtraction facts are described. They are counting forward, counting backward, derivation, and bridging. (MP)

Discusses using what students already know about taking away objects when teaching subtraction and gives six lessons to develop language for discussing and recording subtraction situations that give meaning to the subtraction algorithm. (MKR)

Prior studies indicate that, given time to develop their own algorithms, primary students will process multidigit addition or subtraction problems from left to right. Gives evidence to support that idea, describes methods of getting students to invent their own algorithms, and discusses advantages of child-invented procedures. (21 references) (MDH)

Compares the development of two students' understanding of addition and subtraction. One student's understanding is based on memorized rules and the other's on understanding the concept of place value. Discusses the effects of different goals for instruction and the importance of understanding place value. (MDH)