The principle of the permanence of the rules of calculation is contrasted with the concretization permanence principle. Both apply to situations where some arithmetical operation known to children for numbers of a certain kind is to be extended to include further numbers. (MNS)

This is unit three of a fifteen-unit secondary mathematics textbook. This unit contains two chapters. The first chapter discusses integers and the second chapter discusses rational numbers. Operations with both types of numbers as well as the structure of the systems are discussed. (MK)

This article presents a simple procedure to generate a sequence of rational numbers converging on the square root of 2, yielding common fraction approximations that motivate and illuminate the definition of real numbers based on rationals. Examples suggest that any irrational number can be approximated as closely as desired. A bibliography is…

The sixteen chapters of this book provide the core material for the Elements of Mathematics Program, a secondary sequence developed for highly motivated students with strong verbal abilities. The sequence is based on a functional-relational approach to mathematics teaching, and emphasizes teaching by analysis of real-life situations. This text is…

An extensive investigation of pupil understanding of fractions at the secondary education level showed the majority tended to avoid using fractions, could not generalize about them, and probably did not see them as an extension of the set of whole numbers. (MP)

A hierarchy for learning to solve different types of addition with fractions problems was hypothesized on the basis of both content analysis and psychological considerations. Problem types were defined according to the relationship of the two denominators to each other (e.g., equal, prime, etc.) Students in grades 4 through 8 were each given 45…

Children and adolescents tested to determine the development of the operator construct of rational numbers employed different problem-solving strategies depending on test presentation. Three major phases in the rational number construct appear to be a primitive fractional construct, a unit operator phase, and a general operator phase. (SB)

More work with fractions needs to be done in the elementary school, with emphasis on concepts rather than computational algorithms. (MP)

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,…

The processes and strategies used by Finnish second graders in solving verbal multiplication and division tasks were investigated, and the relationship of these processes and strategies to Piagetian abilities, memory capacity skills, and rational number concepts was charted. Three categories of strategies were classified: operations based on…

Presents activities that can be helpful in establishing a conceptual basis for dividing rational numbers. Some activities involve metric units while others are appropriate for small-group work with calculators. (AIM)

Ignored concepts of numbers, notation, and operation with rational numbers are described. It is proposed that these be taught in the time now devoted to paper-and-pencil skills made obsolete by calculators. (MNS)

Students recognized as less successful individuals in mathematics are tested for their understanding of fractions. The data reveals that most were only able to apply remembered rules to problems without actually knowing if the rule worked for the given situation. (MP)

Describes a study to determine middle school children's representational strategies to form part-whole or part-part relationships for relational numbers such as proportions, ratios, or fractions. Quantitative and qualitative analysis revealed that children prefer a part-part representation to solve relational quantity problems. (15 references)…