Developing concepts, modeling, and solving problems form the core of essential learning about addition and subtraction. That educators may make the task more difficult than necessary is the thrust of several recent studies. Highlights from these studies (with suggestions for instruction) are presented. (JN)

A method for compound subtraction which avoids the need to memorize a difficult set of subtraction facts is explained. (DT)

This textbook is a course in elementary arithmetic. It stresses mental as well as written exercises. Addition and subtraction are first presented together, and later multiplication and division.

Discusses a tally device using discs on a paper diagram. Instructions given for number representation, negative values, games, addition and subtraction. (RS)

Two alternatives are given to the decomposition and equal addition subtraction algorithms. (MK)

Four activities concerning addition and subtraction are described. They range in appropriate grade level from K-2 (crossing out objects) to 6-8 (solving decimal inequalities). Masters for worksheets are provided. (SD)

Reviews the historical development of subtraction algorithms used in the United States. Indicates that the algorithms used to teach subtraction have not changed much in the last 40 years, but in the late 1800s and early 1900s, different algorithms were developed that had a great impact. Contains 22 references. (DDR)

Presents 2 complementary techniques for promoting success in computer-based exploration environments for arithmetic instruction. Semantic constraints are explained, heuristic guidance is discussed, use of the techniques for subtraction instruction is described, and field testing with students in grades 1-3 is briefly discussed. (25 references)…

Proposes a four-category classification of semantic structures of one-step word problems involving multiplication and division: forming the n-th multiple of measures, combinatorial multiplication, composition of operators, and multiplication by formula. This classification is compatible with semantic structures of addition and subtraction word…

Presents an activity involving students in a research project with pictures like those commonly found in elementary school mathematics textbooks and workbooks to sharpen student appreciation of the need for standardized methods of data collection. Illustrates that several different interpretations of the operations of addition and subtraction are…

Asserts that findings on whether young infants look longer at incorrect addition and subtraction have been inconsistent or negative. Hypothesizes that imprecise ordinal calculating with very small numbers of objects develops in late infancy and that precise calculating develops in early childhood. (Author/KB)

Analyzes a didactical sequence for the teaching of addition and subtraction procedures and algorithms. Uses didactical procedures by children in problem solving activities in order to gain a better understanding of the interaction between numbers, numeration, and operations knowledge which are involved in the construction of addition and…

Compares methods of subtraction used by children and teachers. Suggests ways to encourage children to invent their own subtraction algorithms. (CCM)

Young Filipino children are expected to solve mathematical word problems in English, which is not their mother tongue. Because of this, it is often assumed that Filipino children have difficulties in solving problems because they cannot read or comprehend what they have read. This study tested this assumption by determining whether presenting word…