This study assessed whether a sample of two hundred seven 3- to 7-year-olds could interpret multidigit numerals using simple identification and comparison tasks. Contrary to the view that young children do not understand place value, even 3-year-olds demonstrated some competence on these tasks. Ceiling was reached by first grade. When training was…

There were 120 pupils in years 1 to 5 from two schools which were interviewed using specially prepared tasks to study the variety of interpretations given to letters by adolescents. Results indicate that two distinct conceptual understandings of the role played by a letter in relation to geometrical data exist in pupil's thinking. (Author/TG)

A structured system of visual features is seen to parallel the propositional hierarchy of operations usually associated with the parsing of algebraic expressions. Women more than men were found to depend on these visual cues. Possible causes and consequences are discussed. Subjects were secondary and college students. (Author/DC)

Explores two hypotheses about the effect of symbolic systems on psychological functions: (1) culturally elaborated systems of signs affect psychological functioning in a general way; and (2) systems of signs, when used to support skilled action, affect the organization of human activity. Reviews research that supports the second hypothesis. (LB)

Hypothesizes that exploring the mathematical ideas behind mathematical terms enables children to gain insight into the structure of a number system and provides a basis for powerful playing with this structure. Describes visualizing mathematical ideas for exploring aspects of mathematics. Offers rectangular numbers to link and explore structures…