Academic scholars face a difficult challenge when attempting to grasp the intricate world of mathematics. The complexity of mathematical concepts often lies hidden beneath layers of formulas and procedures, obscuring their true essence. Traditional educational resources often fall short in conveying the profound meaning behind these concepts,…

Reviews the historical use of each of the three algorithms used for subtraction in the United States: (1) the equal additions; (2) the decomposition; and (3) the Austrian method. Discusses the modification to the decomposition algorithm and gives a brief overview of the current status of subtraction algorithms. Contains 12 references. (Author/ASK)

Approaches the development of the algorithm from a holistic, spiraling perspective in which students can avoid many of the common mistakes and misunderstandings associated with long division. (CCM)

This investigation concerns the repeated application of the rule "take the sum of the squares of the digits." (MP)

The purpose of this conference sponsored by the French Commission of the Methods of Teaching was to give deep reflection as to the place of algorithms in the teaching curriculum and learning of mathematics. Devoted to the concept of new teaching methods at levels 1-4 of compulsory school education, the debates of this seminar were an occasion for…

Student performance on division exercises in the recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is reviewed. Pupil performance on selected exercises is reported and followed by some suggestions for improvement in the teaching of this skill. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Utilization).

The author redefines basic numeracy as the ability to use a four-function calculator sensibly. He then defines "sensibly" and considers the place of algorithms in the scheme of mathematical calculations. (MN)

Suggestions for teaching the concept of division by zero are given. (MK)

Suggestions are given for teaching flowcharting at the elementary school level. A short list of sources for free materials on computers is included. (DT)

Teaching which does not in any significant way address the genesis of mathematical ideas hides the fact that mathematics is created by people; that it involves intuition, exploring, conjecturing, and reasoning; and that it is purposeful. Such teaching can give students appearance that much of mathematics is very arbitrary; it just falls from the…

The arithmetic needed for complex calculation using an electronic calculator is explained and exemplified. Problems involving square roots, number theory, Fibonacci numbers, and electrical resistances are solved. (SD)

An algorithm for the calculator is given for determining the day of the week for any date. An instructional sheet, a worksheet, and a BASIC program are included. (MP)

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)

Three short essays provide teaching suggestions for lessons on base two, order of operations, and ratios used to motivate a number of mathematical ideas. (MK)

The use of flow charts in the teaching of college mathematics enhances students' understanding of mathematical processes. Used appropriately in elementary and secondary schools they could also nurture understanding of algorithms. (SD)