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)

Measurement experiences can promote and illustrate number work in an intuitively satisfying way. Some current practices that are counterproductive for developing number sense and some alternative strategies that are more constructive are included in discussions of the approximate nature of measurement, realistic measurement, and work with rational…

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)

The first of four quins intended to develop computational skills with non-negative rational numbers through applications to business and industry, this guidebook on minimum course content is designed for the student who has acquired basic computational skills with non-negative rational numbers. Overall course goals are specified, a course outline…

The third of four quins intended to develop computational skills with non-negative rational numbers through applications to business and industry, this guidebook on minimum course content is designed for the student who has acquired basic computational skills with non-negative rational numbers. Topics include measurement and geometrical…

The second of four quins intended to develop computational skills with non-negative rational numbers through applications to business and industry, this guidebook on minimum course content is designed for the student who has acquired basic computational skills with non-negative rational numbers. Overall course goals are specified, a course outline…

The fourth of four quins intended to develop computational skills with non-negative rational numbers through applications to business and industry, this guidebook on minimum course content is designed for the student who has acquired basic computational skills with non-negative rational numbers. Topics include ratio, proportion, and percentage…

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)

Describes examples of rational representation as a guide for translating terminology and information encountered in manuals for computers. Discusses four limitations of the representation. (YP)

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…

Analyzed students' reasoning with fractions. Found that skilled students applied strategies specifically tailored to restricted classes of fractions and produced reliable solutions with a minimum of computation effort. Results suggest that competent reasoning depends on a knowledge base that includes numerically specific and invented strategies,…

Examines the use of a ratio table for developing students' conceptual understanding of rational number. The ratio table is an alternative to cross-multiplication and can utilize both additive and multiplicative strategies. It organizes numbers and keeps track of operations and results, which aids the teacher in assessment. (MLB)