Postulated here is the notion that the exploration of number patterns with calculators is a valuable mathematical learning activity that should be commenced in the primary grades. Various activities are presented that make use of the constant function key, which is available on many of the inexpensive four-function calculators. (JJK)

It is difficult for students to unlearn misconceptions that have been unknowingly reinforced by teachers. The examples "multiplication makes bigger,""pi equals 22/7," and the use of counter examples to demonstrate the numerical property of closure are discussed as potential areas where misconceptions are fostered. (MDH)

Reports on experiments where Arabic-speaking subjects were asked to scan arrays of digits in both standard "Western numeral" and "Indian numeral" forms, and compares array-scanning patterns observed with patterns observed with speakers of other languages, particularly English. The implications in terms of the use of…

Reviews research concerning problems in children's understanding of place value in multidigit numbers. Discusses four elements essential to programs focusing on place value: counting, partitioning, grouping, and understanding number relationships. Proposes a framework and an educational program for nurturing and assessing children's understanding…

Ways that dictation helps students learn English as a Foreign Language are discussed. Varieties of dictation are included along with one teacher's experience using it in a Chinese university. (one reference) (LB)

Included are several general principles pertaining to the uses, applications, and accuracy of significant digits when mathematical computations are performed with calculators. Examples are provided that illustrate how misunderstandings can arise from the misapplication of these principles. (JJK)

Discusses the problem of how the stars on the American flag would be arranged were another state added to the Union. Presents solutions using linear equations based on conditions given in the problem. (MDH)

Discusses the contributions in each chapter of the book, highlighting the textbook analyses for each arithmetic topic presented. (MDH)

Presents student comments as they explain their mathematical reasoning and thinking about place value in addition and subtraction. (ASK)

Compares two groups of preschool children to assess the effect of children's counting ability on their ability to reason about numbers. Describes the research design and the set of expected possible outcomes. Reports results in light of these predictions, concluding that counting ability is not necessary for number-relevant operations. (DSK)

Twenty-nine children with learning disabilities (LD) in grades 2 and 4 through 7 were compared with children without LD for their development of proportional structures of thought. Significantly fewer children with LD had constructed second-order logical structures necessary to act on problems using multiplicative and preproportional reasoning.…

Describes collection-development strategies for use in the identification, evaluation, and selection of numeric-data resources. Addresses three primary issues: the delineation of collecting scope and organizational role; the identification of potentially relevant data resources; and the evaluation of those resources in accordance with objective,…

Provides activities adaptable for a range of learning contexts. The activities focus on Gardner's multiple intelligences, first aid, conversational language skills, mastering ordinal numbers, and detail in writing. (Author/VWL)

Describes some basic difficulties in early algebra and their causes and presents some strategies for overcoming them. Lists five areas as being essential foundations for learning algebra: (1) seeing the operation, not just the answer; (2) understanding the equals sign; (3) understanding the properties of numbers; (4) being able to use all numbers;…

This article argues that the reason the mathematics performance of students with mild disabilities is so limited is the mathematics. Using illustrations from subtraction, the article proposes number sense be a primary goal and that within the realm of number sense, big ideas be included among the dependent variables. (Contains references.)…