The focus is on multi-step problems, with suggestions on helping students understand the mathematical relations, decide which computational procedures to use, and identify the sequence in which computations should be performed. An activity to aid understanding of variables is also included. (MNS)

Compares the ability of students in Michigan (N=302) and Scotland (N=221) to do simple calculation exercises and relational/practical problems involving number and operation. Although this is not a controlled statistical study (data collected included birth date and sex), sample sizes are sufficient to make the reported results meaningful. (JN)

We explore the nature and consequences of teachers' problem solving through an example of a teacher's mathematical problem solving as it was occasioned by a student's mathematics. This illustration demonstrates the value of an interpretive framework that points to the mathematics of the classroom as a collective. Arising from this exploration is…

A distinction is made between estimation and checking, and an analysis of standard errors made on calculators when pupils are checking answers is given. (MP)

Five calculator activities are described that are designed to explore ordered operations. Suggestions are given on mathematical objectives, strategies for solving, and possible extensions or follow-up activities. (MP)

Definitions of estimating and approximating are given and areas where these skills are used (such as practical situations, problem solving, and measurement) are discussed. Nine activities which range from second to twelfth-grade level are suggested. (MK)

Spreadsheet programs are used increasingly by engineering students to solve problems, especially problems requiring repetitive calculations, as they provide rapid and simple numerical solutions. This article shows how advanced spreadsheet programs are used in the learning of numerical solutions of two-dimensional diffusion equation using the…

Investigates the calculation strategies used by female students in Grades Two and Three to solve word problems. Findings indicate that students used three main intuitive models: (1) direct counting; (2) repeated addition; and (3) multiplicative operation. Concludes that children acquire an expanding repertoire of intuitive models and the model…

Presents a problem involving fractions for discussing and sharing of student responses to the problem at a later date. (KHR)

Presents the Perfect-Square Geometry Partners problem to teach students about patterns. (Author/NB)

Two experiments studied preschool children's ability to infer numerosity from correspondence between two sets. Found that children were able to make inferences as early as three years of age. However, differences between the two conditions suggest production deficiencies in young children's use of counting as a problem-solving strategy when they…

The strategies of four men with mild mental retardation when performing calendar calculations were investigated. Results suggested that subjects were aware of calendar rules and regularities, including knowledge of the 14 different calendar templates. Their strategies were rigidly applied and relied heavily on memory, with little manipulation of…

Presents a problem on counting squares that emphasizes the computation and identification of squares. (ASK)

Assessed the strategic flexibility of students in mental arithmetic up to the number 100. Results from 60 Dutch second graders show that students' preference for certain mathematical procedures depend on the number characteristics of the problems, indicating that the students had a good conceptual understanding of numbers and procedures. Actual…

Explores the mathematical problem posing and problem solving of U.S. (N=181) and Chinese (N=223) sixth-grade students. Reports that while Chinese students outperform U.S. students on computational tasks, there are many similarities and differences between U.S. and Chinese students in performing relatively novel tasks. Discusses the direct link…