This paper describes a theoretical model for examining teaching and learning in primary mathematics classrooms. The model in intended to be both analytical--to provide insights into classroom incidents--and heuristic--to inform planning and practice. This paper reports on the elements of the model, which are based on Vygotskian theory and…

A study examined the effect of manipulative instruction on the acquisition and maintenance of perimeter and area problem-solving skills by students with learning disabilities in math. Three rural students with learning disabilities in mathematics in grades 7-10 participated in the study. All training was conducted daily for 15-20 minutes on a…

By studying and practicing metacognition, teachers and parents are instilling positive attitudes toward learning by teaching how-to-learn skills that prepare children for assessing their own thinking about learning as they become more and more developmentally prepared. This book stresses the strategies for thinking in mathematical terms without…

These classic pattern blocks were introduced in the early 1960s as part of the Elementary Science Study materials developed by the Educational Development Center (EDC). The six classic shapes share one common characteristic: all of the angle measurements are multiplies of 30 degrees. Shapes include the regular triangle, square, and hexagon; the…

Multibase arithmetic blocks are used to investigate the minimum number of blocks of each size to make a square of a given size in a given base. Generalizations are made to any size and any base through pattern recognition. The problem is extended to rectangles, cubes, and rectangular solids. (LS)

Discussion of the use of teaching machines to help a child learn the basics of geometry. Fully developed educational modules for such subjects as physics, biology, physiology and linguistics are forth-coming. (EB)

An outline of practical experiences from which the concept of length measurement may be learned. (MM)

Films, booklets, and tape/slide packs were used as self-instructional aids for teachers in an inservice course on the use of concrete materials for elementary school mathematics instruction. (DT)

Methods instructors can use a variety of activities to have preservice teachers use manipulative materials themselves and with pupils. Types of materials and approaches are discussed. (MNS)

Activities using paper punches are described, dealing with one-to-one correspondence, place value, large numbers, prime and composite numbers, operations, geometric shapes, and measurement. (MNS)

Helping children to bridge the gap between physical materials and symbolic representations is the focus of this article. Examples are drawn from numerical topics, with several hierarchies illustrated. (MNS)