The relative effectiveness of three methods of teaching fraction computation in the context of the community college was investigated. The use of calculators was a special focus of the study. The three methods were: (1) conventional algorithms with no calculator, (2) conventional algorithms with calculator, and (3) alternative algorithms using…

Algorithms for generating random numbers are discussed along with disadvantages. A program for a programable calculator is given that overcomes those disadvantages. (MP)

A procedure is described that enables students to perform operations on fractions with a calculator, expressing the answer as a fraction. Patterns using paper-and-pencil procedures for each operation with fractions are presented. A microcomputer software program illustrates how the answer can be found using integer values of the numerators and…

The major portion of the article establishes the basis for the stated rule - to divide by a fraction, turn it upside down and multiply. With this background, three justifications for the rule are given. Several possible errors in students' use of the rule are noted. (LS)

One hundred seventy-six seventh grade students underwent a recorded interview where each was given a set of computational exercises and asked to say aloud his thinking as he worked them. The most frequently used strategies in computations with whole numbers and fractions are described in detail, an analysis of the nature of wrong answers is…

A straight forward process for working in fractions on any calculator is presented. The method involves converting a decimal back into a fraction in its lowest terms. (MN)

Results of this study indicated calculator algorithms can serve as an effective alternative instructional strategy where computational skill is an instructional goal. (MP)

This study of seventh graders investigated the use of the calculator in learning conversion algorithms among fractions, decimals, and percents. The calculator was successful with some topics but not with others. (MP)

A teaching sequence provides a guide to instruction on initial concepts of fractions, equivalent fractions, and addition with fractions. (MN)

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…

Three different methods of teaching fraction computation were compared using community college student scores on measures of fraction computation, fraction understanding, and attitude towards mathematics. One method used conventional algorithms; the second, a control for the effect of using a calculator, used conventional algorithms and…

Eight sixth-grade students received individualized instruction on the addition and subtraction of fractions in a one-to-one setting for 6 weeks. Instruction was specifically designed to build upon the student's prior knowledge of fractions. It was determined that all students possessed a rich store of prior knowledge about parts of wholes in real…

Activities are given to assist students in seeing a rationale for the difficult algorithms we teach for fractions. Both interpretations of fractions and operations with fractions are discussed. (MNS)

This booklet was written to provide elementary-school teachers with an overview of some of the research results related to the development of computational skills, together with ideas for classroom activities which have grown out of research projects. The booklet is organized into twelve sections, the first of which is devoted to delineating the…