This article first describes some of the basic skills and knowledge that a solid elementary school mathematics foundation requires. It then elaborates on several points germane to these practices. These are then followed with a discussion and conclude with final comments and suggestions for future research. The article sets out the five…

Proposes that ability is a concept central to the current practices of mathematics teaching. Argues that the widespread view that mathematics learning is an ordered progression through a hierarchy of knowledge and skills subjects students to "ability stereotyping" and serves as a gross global model. (TW)