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 a lesson on long division using chip trading which follows that algorithm for long division. (MKR)

Presents several alternatives to customary algorithms for whole number arithmetic. Includes a brief history of each algorithm and discusses why each might be useful for particular kinds of children. (KHR)

Illustrates how upper elementary grade students can develop an understanding of the invert-and-multiply algorithm. (CCM)

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)

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)

Explores written calculation methods for division used by pupils in England (n=276) and the Netherlands (n=259). Analyses informal strategies and identifies progression towards more structured procedures that result from different teaching approaches. Comparison of methods used shows greater success in the Dutch approach which is based on…

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)

Examines 250 sixth-grade students' understanding of arithmetic average by assessing their understanding of the computational algorithm. Results indicate that the majority of the students knew the "add-them-all-up-and-divide" averaging algorithm, but only half of the students were able to correctly apply the algorithm to solve a…

Compares methods of subtraction used by children and teachers. Suggests ways to encourage children to invent their own subtraction algorithms. (CCM)

Fourteen third graders were given numerical computation and division-with-remainder (DWR) problems both before and after they were taught the division algorithm in classrooms. Their solutions were examined. The results show that students' initial acquisition of the division algorithm did improve their performance in numerical division computations…

Reviews research using diagrams, number sentences, and algorithms to help students learn to add and subtract; poses questions on the relationship of instruction to children's knowledge construction; and proposes a research agenda in this area. (86 references) (MKR)

Compares the approaches to teaching division in Britain and in Holland where different emphasis is placed on the development of mental and written methods. Describes how it is common for pupils in Britain to work from an early stage with pencil and paper rather than mentally whereas early emphasis is placed on mental strategies in Holland. (ASK)

Describes the success, the methods (mental, informal written, standard algorithm) and the strategies of informal written arithmetic to be observed when 300 elementary students worked on six addition and six subtraction problems with three-digit numbers. (Author/MM)

This response to Usiskin's editorial comment on calculator use in the May 1983 issue considers why arithmetic is taught. The belief that mathematics improves thinking and the humanist position that it is part of our cultural heritage are noted. The role of mathematics in the curriculum should be reconsidered. (MNS)