One of the challenges in learning fractions is understanding how and why a fraction can have multiple interpretations. As presented in one textbook, a fraction is "a symbol, such as 2/3, 5/1, or 8/5, used to name a part of a whole, a part of a set, a location on a number line, or a division of whole numbers" (Charles et al. 2012, p.…

A teacher's notes of ideas on how to teach decimals and what everyday examples to use. For part 1 of this article, see volume 2, number 3, pages 23-24. (MM)

Mechanical devices offer an alternative to computers to explore mathematical concepts in different curricula areas. Described is the discograph, a series of pulleys and wheels, that can be used to teach mathematical principles in pattern drawing, locus, rotation in geared systems, gearing, rotational symmetry, regular plane figures, decimal, and…

Four activities with window panes are described and illustrated as they extend children's knowledge of fractional numbers. (MNS)

Chapters 11 through 14 of a 14-chapter, three-volume work on arithmetical applications are contained in this document. Each chapter details the "use classes" of one broad arithmetical concept. (A "use class" of a concept is a set of examples of real world uses of the concept which share a common structure). Each chapter…

In response to an earlier article advocating the elimination of fractions from the curriculum, the author argues for their retention. He points out examples of their use in music and physic, and discusses methods of presenting operations on fractions. (SD)

Describes how to incorporate the concept of significant figures into science activities to promote understanding. Provides helpful classroom examples using measurements of volume and length. (SAH)

Proposes helping students understand fractions by establishing connections between students' informal knowledge of fractions and the mathematical symbols used to represent fractions. Sample dialogues demonstrate how these connections can be made. (MDH)

Presents guidelines for designing and using extensions, which are exercises that follow or extend the basic presentation of an idea, in the mathematics area of the Montessori program to give children more experience and depth as they explore key mathematical concepts. Describes extensions that address counting, sorting, and working with decimals.…

This book is the teacher's manual to a text designed to meet the particular needs of those children who have "accumulated discouragements" in learning mathematics. It is a manual of suggested teaching strategies and additional materials aimed at compensating for past student failures to understand mathematical concepts. This book, L, is…