Parents can positively impact children's learning of mathematics. To productively engage families in the learning process, teachers must support such interpersonal relationships. The author describes the investigative work of a group of teacher candidates as they sought to attain such understanding. Eighteen preservice teachers, who were…

Explores ways to help children make connections between whole-number multiplication and their notion of a fraction. Illustrates an approach to constructing fraction concepts that builds on children's whole-number knowledge using specially designed computer tools. (KHR)

Describes a situation resulting from a research study on the use of Web-based manipulatives differed from the intuition of teachers. Discusses the reactions of the teachers who participated in the study and offers suggestions on what to do when research results differ from intuition. (KHR)

Presents research findings and suggestions on how children learn to categorize shapes. Discusses specific ways to present developmentally appropriate activities designed to enhance children's understanding of basic shapes. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

Explores how to know when children think mathematically, how to establish a setting that elicits mathematical thinking, and what to learn about children as a result. Fourth grade students think and talk mathematically while tackling a real-life PACKETS program. Addresses content standards involving proportional reasoning as well as the process…

Investigates uses of interactive geometry software to enhance students' understanding and reasoning about two-dimensional shapes. Describes basic principles that underlie high-quality geometry instruction. Presents examples that illustrate how appropriate use of dynamic software can enhance students' geometric reasoning. (KHR)

Presents an overview of the geometry findings of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and ways to use problems from the study to assess students' understanding of geometry. (ASK)