This paper examines the existence and impact of theoretical mathematical foundations on the teaching and learning of whole numbers in elementary school in France. It shows that the study of the New Math reform--which was eventually itself replaced in the longer term--provides some keys to understanding the influence of mathematical theories on…

From a curricular stand point, the traditional invert and multiply algorithm for division of fractions provides few affordances for linking to a rich understanding of fractions. On the other hand, an alternative algorithm, called common denominator algorithm, has many such affordances. The current study serves as an argument for shifting…

This guidance report focuses on the teaching of mathematics to pupils in Key Stages 2 and 3. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide to mathematics teaching. We have made recommendations where there are research findings that schools can use to make a significant difference to pupils' learning, and have focused on the questions that…

Suggests that algorithms, both traditional and student-invented, are proper objects of study not only as tools for computation, but also for understanding the nature of the operations of arithmetic. (Author/NB)

Describes the work that students and teachers do to develop computational fluency for subtraction. Examines the orchestration of whole-class discourse and presents a collection of common strategies. (Author/NB)

Suggests ways to increase students' computational fluency using concrete materials, engaging tasks, and reflection time to increase number automaticity, flexibility in thinking about numbers, and use of efficient problem-solving strategies to find sums and differences. (Author/NB)

Describes the use of a soroban, a base-10 computer which is a relative of the Chinese abacus, for developing concepts of number sense, place value, operation sense, and mental computation. Provides pictures of the soroban. (MKR)

Provides an alternative to traditional instruction in multiplication and division to develop computational fluency in students. (Author/NB)

The WISC, Piagetian logico-mathematical and representational space tasks, the Frostig DTVP and a motor ability test were administered to elementary children at 3 age and arithmetic achievement levels to determine whether specific patterns of cognitive and/or spatial development were related to arithmetic achievement and whether patterns varied…

This paper provides some guidance as to what to listen for to help students make sense of expressions in ways that connect to their ideas and honestly address the mathematics of rational numbers. It offers a reasonable initial answer to the question, "Where do students' ideas about fractions and ratios come from, and how can we work productively…

When students confront arithmetic or algebraic word problems, they develop ideas and notations during the processes of solving them by using various arithmetic strategies. Those ideas and notations are the basis for solving that type of problems. Is it possible to aid the development of students' algebraic thinking during their transition from…

Reviews the historical development of subtraction algorithms used in the United States. Indicates that the algorithms used to teach subtraction have not changed much in the last 40 years, but in the late 1800s and early 1900s, different algorithms were developed that had a great impact. Contains 22 references. (DDR)

Focuses on children making sense of multiplication. In an activity called "Silent Multiplication," students use what they know about easier multiplication problems to solve increasingly difficult, related problems mentally. (Author/NB)

Presents mathematical calculator activities used by students individually, in small groups, or as problems of the week. Suggests using calculators to enhance and stimulate student learning. (KHR)

Limitations in children's understanding of the symbols of arithmetic may inhibit choice of appropriate solution procedures. The teacher's role involves negotiation of new meanings for words and symbols to match extensions to solution procedures. (MKR)