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)

Answers and examples are given to sixteen questions related to traditional ways of performing the operations of arithmetic. (MP)

A current method of teaching long division using repeated subtraction is analyzed as being an example of a sound mathematical method that falls into disrepute when it results in unnecessary, length calculations. (MP)

The use of the calculator is suggested in teaching algorithms for the four basic operations, in place of any difficult standard algorithm. (MP)

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)

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…

Allowing students to examine different ways of performing an operation is suggested as a means of increasing their understanding. (MP)

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…

Refinements of work with calculator algorithms previously conducted by the author are reported. Work with "chaining" and the doing/undoing property in addition and subtraction was tested with 24 third-grade students. Results indicated the need for further instruction with both ideas. Students were able to manipulate the calculator keyboard, but…

The use of developmental algorithms to develop skills is described. Children make the transition from using concrete materials to using a standard algorithm. (MNS)

Describes a research project designed to monitor the transition from work based on concrete materials to the more formalized aspect of mathematics found in secondary schools. The topic of subtraction was chosen by three teachers who were involved in the investigation. (PK)

Three types of arithmetic algorithms are discussed and compared. These are algorithms designed to get the right answer, computer algorithms, and algorithms designed to get the right answer and understand why. (MP)

This article describes an empirical investigation of the extent to which incorrect arithmetic algorithms persist over time. Results with 30 fourth-year and third-year English students over up to 3 months shed light on "bugs," or students' learning of incorrect concepts, and indicate that they are not very stable in children of this age.…

One teacher's struggle with conveying a concrete realization of the subtraction algorithm to students leads to a discussion of elementary mathematics instruction in general. (MP)