Outlines the development of a lesson structured around four stages of problem-solving. Provides five problems and questions for understanding, getting started, and for extension in each of the problems. (YP)

Examines whether verbal problem-solving skills in a group of fourth graders would improve if they were specifically taught how to generate their own diagrams when solving word problems. Classifies textbook word problems into three general types and describes them: (1) tabular; (2) geometric; and (3) contingency diagraming. (YP)

Describes "talk-through" model of peer teaching in which student pairs are asked to verbalize their thinking processes as they work through a mathematical problem. Lists five benefits of using this method. (MDH)

A list of heuristics for elementary school children is provided. Two examples which are viewed to demonstrate the conscientious and creative use of problem-solving strategies by fourth graders are detailed. Suggestions for teachers on how to help pupils develop their problem-solving abilities are included. (MP)

A teacher describes the experiences of her fourth-grade students when using calculators during mathematics class. (MK)

A project to tempt students to pose questions, state hypotheses, measure, estimate, compute, and evaluate their answers in terms of a problem they can see and manipulate is described. Selecting landmarks, collecting data, developing a blueprint, interior decoration, and fabrication are among the points discussed. (MNS)

The way that fractions are taught to fourth-grade pupils at the Village Community School in New York City is detailed. The approach is thought to make the often frightening symbols of fractions into something that even beginning students find meaningful. Meaning rather than computational technique is emphasized. (MP)

Presented is a conversation with students that gives an insight into the ways students think about decimals. Students were introduced, with the use of a calculator, to decimal notation and systematic experimentation. What students had learned throughout this conversation is discussed. (KR)

Data are presented for problem-solving content of selected elementary school mathematics textbooks and problem-solving achievement for students in Iowa for grades 4-6 for selected years between 1955 and 1985. Relationships between textbook content and student achievement are considered. (RH)

Several types of problems designed to provide opportunities for mathematically able students to do original and analytic thinking at grades 3 and 4 while reinforcing numeration and computation skills are presented. (MP)

Presents two seasonally related investigations involving arithmetic series to develop critical thinking: (1) the number of candles needed for the eight nights of Hanukkah, and (2) the number of presents given during "The Twelve Days of Christmas." Students also calculated the amount of money needed to buy all the presents. (MDH)