The adverse influence of the presence of an irrelevant number and language inconsistency in a word problem is well known. Our study focused on the combination of these two variables and on the position of the irrelevant number in the word problem for Grade 6 pupils. The study has a mixed design. Item Response Theory was used to make equally able…

Numeracy is a key competency for living in our modern knowledge society. Therefore, it is essential to support numerical learning from basic to more advanced competency levels. From educational psychology it is known that learning is most effective when the respective content is neither too easy nor too demanding in relation to learners'…

This article reports results from a study investigating the impact of a sustained, comprehensive early algebra intervention in third grade. Participants included 106 students; 39 received the early algebra intervention, and 67 received their district's regularly planned mathematics instruction. We share and discuss students' responses to a written…

Now in a second edition, the award-winning "The Trouble with Maths" offers important insights into the often confusing world of numeracy. By looking at learning difficulties in maths from several perspectives, including the language of mathematics, thinking styles and the demands of individual topics, this book offers a complete overview of the…

This dissertation presents two studies designed to examine the topic of fraction division in selected Chinese and US curricula. By comparing the structure and content of the Chinese and "Everyday Mathematics" textbooks and teacher's guides, Study 1 revealed many different features presented in the selected curricula. Major differences…

A widely recognized concern in elementary school mathematics education is that teachers' understanding of the mathematical curricular content generally appears quite fragmented, sparsely connected, and procedurally oriented. This pilot study applies methods of educational neuroscience to investigate and improve preservice teachers' learning and…

Aims to help children understand difficult concepts according to their own particular learning styles and to keep students learning while maintaining their interest in and excitement about mathematics. Presents everyday mathematics games for students at every ability level to practice important mathematical skills. (ASK)

This study investigated the fluency with which first-graders with strong, moderate, or weak mathematical abilities apply the decomposition-to-10 and tie strategy on almost-tie sums with bridge over 10. It also assessed children's memorized knowledge of additions up to 20. Children's strategies were analysed in terms of Lemaire and Siegler's model…

Discusses duality between process and concept in mathematics, ambiguity of symbolic notation, and flexibility in thought processes of successful students. Content analysis and empirical evidence suggest a qualitatively different kind of mathematical thought in more able compared to less able elementary students (n=72) in arithmetic. (Contains 42…

Based on the assumption that each student learns in a unique way, this paper outlines the factors to be considered before selecting the methods of instruction for particular mathematics courses and their students. The advantages and disadvantages of the lecture/textbook and question/answer method, individualized instruction, self-pacing,…

Examined the problem-solving strategies of above average students (n=42) in grades 2-4 on problems involving forgotten or new material while practicing arithmetic with a computer. Identified the different problem-solving strategies used, sorted them into categories, and illustrated them with examples from students' protocols. Made suggestions for…