As an alternative to looking solely at linear functions, a three-lesson learning progression developed for Year 6 students that incorporates triangular numbers to develop children's algebraic thinking is described and evaluated.

A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM FIVE SCHOOLS MET FOR TWO WEEKS TO DISCUSS MEANS OF IMPROVING ARITHMETIC TEACHING. THE CONTENT OF EACH GRADE WAS EXAMINED. THE PURPOSE WAS TO DETERMINE VARIOUS APPROACHES TO MOTIVATE BETTER LEARNING. NOTES OF THESE MEETINGS HAVE BEEN REPRODUCED AND SUGGESTIONS FOR TEACHERS OFFERED. TEACHERS SHOULD PROVIDE MANY…

Argues that reasons for teaching geometry before second-year algebra include higher student achievement and attitude and better abstract thinking. (PK)

This syllabus was designed as an elementary school mathematics methods course and is used with interns in a Teacher Corps project at Oklahoma State University as a part of their practicum experience. The course is conceived as a blend of directed readings, seminars, independent study, workshops, and practica. The syllabus is divided into four…

Proposes that ability is a concept central to the current practices of mathematics teaching. Argues that the widespread view that mathematics learning is an ordered progression through a hierarchy of knowledge and skills subjects students to "ability stereotyping" and serves as a gross global model. (TW)