The Cockcroft Report on English Schools recommends that all schools design their syllabuses and examinations on the assumption that all students will have access to calculators. How to use calculators sensibly to improve what is taught and how curriculum content may change are discussed. (MNS)

Computational skills in multiplication and division are reinforced and practice is provided on these worksheets on estimating, finding factors, and determining divisibility. (MNS)

The effectiveness of the Multisensory Basic Fact Program to teach addition facts to 115 remedial groups in grades two through six in Australian schools was studied. Performance increased between pre- and posttests and was maintained on the retention test. (MNS)

A test was given to 322 secondary students to develop a profile of mathematical ability based on four components: computation, pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and symbolic manipulation. These profiles were compared to mathematics test scores; the results verified hypotheses about individual differences in mental processes and knowledge…

Research conducted in several countries has shown consistent patterns of performance on "change,""combine," and "compare" word problems involving addition and subtraction. These findings are interpreted within a theoretical framework which emphasizes development of levels of word problem-solving ability related to…

Investigation of the relationship between systematic computational errors and achievement among native Indian children indicated a significant relationship between error type and achievement in multiplication but not in addition or subtraction. In multiplication, high achievers tended to make nonsystematic errors; low achievers tended to make…

The subtraction ideas presented are designed for elementary and junior high school children, yet are felt to be flexible enough to offer some challenge for high school students, particularly in algebra. (MP)

A way to use tongue depressors in a model of multiplication is presented. The original intent was to use the sticks to teach about fractions, but "mistakes" in student responses led to new ideas. It is felt that teachers should use the model in teaching multiplication. (MP)

Four basic types of student errors in computation are noted and described. These are: (1) mechanical, (2) careless, (3) conceptual, and (4) procedural. It is felt many teachers deal with all errors as if they were of the unhabituated procedural type, with not enough attention given to other possibilities. (MP)

Pre-experimental interviews conducted with three children to investigate three aspects of the nature of counting are detailed. Sixteen findings related to the counting of perceptual items are summarized. (MP)

We should not, in the name of "back to basics," regress to the old methodologies of memorization and drill. Computational skills must be thoroughly developed, but mathematics should also be taught in a way that will enhance thinking skills and problem solving in an enjoyable atmosphere. (Author/SJL)

In presenting a rationale for allowing--even encouraging--children to count on their fingers, the author illustrates finger counting systems from African and American Indian tribes and the medieval European system cataloged by the Venerable Bede. She cites number words from many languages which derive from names for gestures. (SJL)

A proposal to shift to a conceptually oriented curriculum using the calculator as an instructional tool and to eliminate the teaching of complex computations in elementary school is presented. (MP)

An example of an unrealistic "real world" problem from the National Assessment of Educational Progress highlights a comparison of school and "folk" mathematics. The failures of typical problems taught in school and some suggested remedies are featured. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document:…

Directions for making a device that parents can use to help children practice basic skills are given. (MK)