Discusses the use of manipulative materials to model operations and algorithms. Indicates that they clarify the several interpretations of each operation, establish a basis for correct mathematical language, and show why algorithms work. (JN)

Describes teaching strategies in which children are encouraged to develop computational procedures that are meaningful to them. Authors state that classroom observation reveals most primary students to be capable of developing their own accurate solution procedures for multi-digit addition and subtraction as well as for simple multiplication and…