Results of this study indicated calculator algorithms can serve as an effective alternative instructional strategy where computational skill is an instructional goal. (MP)

A model of the division algorithm is described which relates step-by-step to the standard algorithm. Use of the model in instruction requires the distribution of a special worksheet. The focus of the instruction is on students sharing some amount of money equally among several friends. (MP)

Typical instruction of the division algorithm fails to justify why one brings down a number during the process. The construction and use of an aid is described which can be used to help explain the process of division to students. The aid emphasizes place-value aspects. (MP)

Results of this study, done with underachieving ninth graders, indicate that flow charting as a structure for basic skills instruction can be considered as effective as the traditional approach. (MK)

Three alternative methods of finding averages of two numbers are presented. (MP)

Interesting mathematical questions that require computations involving fractions, percentages, and decimals are presented. The material is designed for students in the middle school grades, but many of the ideas could be used with higher or lower level pupils. (MP)

Raises and responds to questions about what and how to teach mathematics with the availability of calculators to all students. Discusses whether students need basic facts, mechanical skills, and knowledge of computational algorithms. Argues that students need to develop number sense and analytical skills using simple, symbolic, and graphing…

Eight sixth-grade students received individualized instruction on the addition and subtraction of fractions in a one-to-one setting for 6 weeks. Instruction was specifically designed to build upon the student's prior knowledge of fractions. It was determined that all students possessed a rich store of prior knowledge about parts of wholes in real…

Two questions were investigated in this study: (1) How did the computational proficiency of sixth graders who had one year's experience with Developing Mathematical Processes (DMP) materials compare with an equivalent group of students who used the usual textbook program; and (2) What occurs when sixth graders study algorithms as sequences of rule…

Alternative algorithms, "tricks," and shortcuts are viewed as ideally suited for inclusion in a systematic program of practice because of their motivational effect and the mental stimulation involved in discovering why they work. (MP)

The author suggests that, through using the outlined question model and suggested classroom activities, elementary students will improve their abilities to analyze routine, one-step word problems and make a plan for the solution. It is further argued that the same algorithm can be applied to multistep problems by using specified questions. (PK)

This study was designed to follow up earlier work on mapping instruction. The two main goals were to: (1) test the effectiveness of mapping instruction as a general cure for "buggy" subtraction algorithms, and (2) explore two alternative explanations of how this new form of instruction works. It was hypothesized that mapping cures bugs…

The results of an investigation of the development of children's knowledge of addition and subtraction concepts before they start school are detailed. The purpose of the study was to test the predictions of the three-stage model about the distinctions between the last two stages. Twenty-four children participated in the investigation. None of…

This paper is designed to provide teachers with more guidance on how to help students become proficient in the recall of basic number facts. Activities and practices are placed in a sequence designed to aid all instructors. The learning of number facts is divided into three stages: (1) the development of basic number facts; (2) establishing number…

Presented is an overview of some specific schemes that have been used successfully by teachers throughout New York State to strengthen basic mathematics skills. Components offer ideas that have been successful with primary, intermediate, and secondary students. The contents of this Creole language edition are identical to the English language and…