Results are reported from a study of the problem-solving abilities of Swedish children aged 12-13. Illustrative problems and conclusions are given to describe a method for defining and testing problem solving. (MNS)

Surprisingly little is known about the extent of children's knowledge about number beyond their ability to recite, read and write numbers and count quantities of objects. There is little information on the extent to which children are aware of how number is used in their everyday environment or of how much they gain from such early exposure. The…

This paper is a translation of a report on two Swedish investigations concerning children's lack of understanding of the quantitative value of numbers (specifically, decimals and fractions). (MN)

Studied for three years were eight Swedish classes with pupils aged 10-12 using calculators whenever they could be of use, along with experimental textbooks. The experimental classes were as competent as control classes in mental arithmetic and calculations with simple algorithms, and had better understanding of numbers and problem solving. (MNS)