Author Pam Harris argues that teaching real math--math that is free of distortions--will reach more students more effectively and result in deeper understanding and longer retention. This book is about teaching undistorted math using the kinds of mental reasoning that mathematicians do. Memorization tricks and algorithms meant to make math…

Discusses an algorithm that converts a fraction in simplest form into a terminating decimal and allows students to explore the efficacy and conceptual bases of a mathematical algorithm. (ASK)

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)

Illustrates how upper elementary grade students can develop an understanding of the invert-and-multiply algorithm. (CCM)

A procedure is described that enables students to perform operations on fractions with a calculator, expressing the answer as a fraction. Patterns using paper-and-pencil procedures for each operation with fractions are presented. A microcomputer software program illustrates how the answer can be found using integer values of the numerators and…

Results of this study indicated calculator algorithms can serve as an effective alternative instructional strategy where computational skill is an instructional goal. (MP)

The author feels teaching division of fractions is worthwhile because it will help students understand other algorithms. (MK)

An efficient division algorithm is developed, using a computer program, to convert any positive fraction to its decimal representation. The computer program listing is included. (MNS)

Renaming fractions with the dot method is described with illustrations. It can be used to introduce renaming at the manipulative level in a meaningful way prior to moving to a more abstract level where prime factorization will be involved. (MNS)

A process of teaching fractions is detailed that respects pupil ideas and concept images and builds on these in a way that helps children to develop personal algorithms. This approach is an attempt to get away from perceived one-sided views found in most textbooks. (MP)

Work with recurring decimals provides pupils with an opportunity for exploration and examination of a wide variety of mathematical ideas and strategies. Examples of work done by one group of pupils who were presented with an opportunity to explore such decimals is featured. (MP)

Interesting mathematical questions that require computations involving fractions, percentages, and decimals are presented. The material is designed for students in the middle school grades, but many of the ideas could be used with higher or lower level pupils. (MP)

Use of low-stress algorithms to reduce the cognitive load on students is advocated. The low-stress algorithm for addition developed by Hutchings is detailed first. Then a variation on the usual algorithm is proposed: adding from left to right, writing the partial sum for each stage. Next, a "quick addition" method for adding fractions proposed by…