Diagnostic evaluation is a major way to help students overcome errors. How such evaluation can be done is discussed, with comments on what should be checked and recorded by the teacher. (MNS)

Two successful procedures for evaluating problem-solving performance in the classroom are shared. Five goals for teaching problem-solving are noted, followed by a discussion of evaluating a child's performance through joint use of: (1) analyzing written work; and (2) observing and questioning students. (MP)

Performance assessment, a method that makes possible the assessment of multiple dimensions of students' progress, including dispositions, is described. Criteria for good performance tasks are given, and their structure is illustrated through an example. A list of 10 dispositions toward mathematics and a self-evaluation group-performance rating…

Presents the elementary-level formative evaluation method of functional diagnosis that gives students immediate feedback on completed assignments. Gives three examples of the method as observed in the classrooms of master teachers: putting red dots next to problems needing attention; paired learning, and student answer keys. (MDH)

Presented are practical methods exemplifying principles of assessment that involve minimal disruption of the instructional process and not impose additional work on the teacher. Informal assessment methods include annotated class lists and student work folios. Formal assessment methods include practical tests, student-constructed tests, and…

Shares an experience from a mathematics methods course for elementary teachers that used concrete materials to teach the concept of rounding in different bases. Discusses how this experience modeled recommendations by the NCTM "Professional Teaching Standards" in creating classroom climate and conducting discussion. (MDH)

The mathematics associated with division is discussed, working from a theorem for the real division algorithm. Real-world, geometric, and algebraic approaches are discussed, as are related topics. (MNS)

Two difficulties that students have in computing with fractions are idenfitied. Then a procedure is described, stressing the identity element, that resolves these difficulties and increases students' understanding and retention. (MNS)

How the strategy of uninterrupted sustained silent reading, can be adapted as uninterrupted sustained arithmetic for use in mathematics classes and clinics is discussed. Several activities are described and illustrated. (MNS)

The focus is on the problem-solving strategy "write an equation." Other topics to develop problem-solving skills are included. (MNS)

Solving a problem using the work-backward strategy is discussed, with tips on other facets of problem solving. (MNS)

Presented are assessment techniques to help improve instruction. Included are the formative assessment techniques observation and questioning, diagnostic interviews, and problem-solving-based investigations and the summative assessment technique of performance-based tasks. Examples of these methods are provided together with at-home activities…

Use of an ancient method of mental calculation with aliquot parts is illustrated. Other tips for helping children reason are also included. (MNS)

Suggestions are provided on diskette care, software worth seeing, teaching that computers can't do everything, and a debugging activity. (MNS)

Describes a strategy in which mathematics is taught using a tournament format. Planning for a tournament, tournament rules, and procedures (with sample problems) are included. (JN)