Work by Dutch and Belgian researchers on arithmetic problems involving addition and subtraction is reviewed, especially word problems. It is an attempt to synthesize the research on the relationship between instruction in the part-whole line diagram and the solution of problems. Both logical and psychological interpretations are discussed. (MNS)

The effect of instruction in addition and subtraction concepts and skills on the processes first-grade pupils use to solve verbal problems was studied. Children represented solutions in individual interviews. Results indicated pupils shifted from a concrete direct modeling approach to a more unified conception that incorporated symbolic…

Calculator use by kindergarten and first-grade pupils was examined to see whether they could perceive and use the "counter button." Results indicated pupils at this age could use calculators as a tool, and further research is encouraged. (MP)

Using error analysis and individual interviews, the problem-solving actions of first and second graders were analyzed. Shortcomings of children's knowledge and solution strategies were seen to be overcome by instruction. A control group, with usual arithmetic instruction, and an experimental group were established and the hypothesized…

The article presents two teaching strategies for use with elementary age educable mentally retarded students. The first introduces the concept of the equivalence of a nickel and five pennies in terms of buying power. The second strategy involves teaching students the skill of adding various combinations of nickels and pennies. (PHR)

An exploratory investigation of various incorrect solution procedures used by students attempting to solve a variety of forms of open sentences is reported. The study identifies specific incorrect strategies, indicates their relative frequency of occurrence, and attempts to offer some explanation for certain of the incorrect procedures used. (MK)

Masters to be removed and copied are given. The worksheets are designed to reinforce computational skills and the concepts of largest or smallest numbers, as well as to provide practice is using a straightedge. (MK)

Data from (n=4) students in grades three through six showed a consistent parallel between the types of units constructed in a geometric setting with those in a numeric context. Students who constructed abstract composite units in tiling the plane also did so in adding and subtracting whole numbers. (Author/MKR)

Examined the relationship between counting knowledge and computational skills for 13 mathematically disabled (MD) first graders who showed a delay in acquiring mathematical skills and 24 nondisabled first graders. MD children's immature counting knowledge and poor skills at detecting counting errors underlay their poor computational skills on an…

Fourth graders' (n=117) solutions to addition problems were analyzed in terms of standard or idiosyncratic written algorithms. Students had not previously been taught pencil-and-paper algorithms. Preference for horizontal layout, working from left to right, and a wide variety of written algorithms were found. (Contains 48 references.) (Author/MKR)

Assesses the competence of children (N=215) between the ages of 5 and 9 at addition by asking them to estimate the answers to addition sums. Reports that children at higher levels tend to produce more reasonable estimates than children at lower levels. Discusses the existence and nature of a zone of partial knowledge and understanding. Contains 31…

Most people recognize that children should learn basic facts, because knowing them is useful both in school and in real life outside the classroom. Describes a strategies approach to basic addition and subtraction-facts instruction, and discusses assessment techniques and a rationale for the approach. Contains 29 references. (ASK)

Reports on two studies that use new tasks to compare English children's use of strategies that reverse the order of addends in solving addition problems. Shows that knowledge of commutativity among young children is widespread, but does not establish a direct link between this knowledge and children's choice of addition strategies. (DSK)