Example of magic tricks that can be used as an integral part of various lessons in arithmetic and algebra are given. Their mathematical basis is also discussed. (MNS)

The importance of teaching computational estimation is discussed, with note of its increased significance because of widespread use of calculators and the need to develop number sense. The reason for its failure to be taught is traced to the multiplicity of methods, and some detailed suggestions are therefore presented. (MNS)

Programing a microcomputer to solve problems in whole-number arithmetic, rather than using the built-in operations of the computer, is described. Not only useful, it also enhances important mathematical concepts and is adaptable to a range of student abilities. (MNS)

Research on the usefulness of calculators in mathematics instruction is cited, and some activities using calculators to develop skills with reading numbers, counting, basic facts, multiplication and division, problem solving, estimation, percentages, decimals, patterns, probability, and games are described. (MNS)

Findings from a study with first-grade children on addition and subtraction help make a case for a conceptual rather than a mechanized approach to the operations. How base ten blocks were used in the program is illustrated. (MNS)

Activities are suggested for using the hand calculator as a complement to any mathematics program. The activities focus on developing skills for using the calculator, exploring basic arithmetic operations, understanding algorithms, mental calculation and estimation, and problem solving. (DT)

The following questions are answered in this information brief: (1) Does tuition pay the full cost of a student's undergraduate education at a state university? (2) How much does the State contribute for an undergraduate Florida student? (3) How much did the state contribute in financial assistance? (4) What activities are included in calculating…

The teaching and learning in algebra has been much debated. Traditionally early algebra has relied heavily on arithmetic. Recently our focus has changed to teaching algebraic thinking with arithmetic thinking. This paper explores the models that assist young students generalise the patterns of arithmetic compensation. A teaching experiment was…

To examine how conceptual knowledge about fraction magnitudes changes as students' learning progresses, 5th and 7th-grade students were asked to solve fraction magnitude problems that entailed finding a fraction between two given fractions and then to evaluate solutions for similar problems that were modeled for them. When the given fractions…

Measurement can develop in the earliest years from children's experience, and it readily lends itself to real-world application. Focusing on research and practice, NCTM's 2003 Yearbook presents current thinking about the learning and teaching of measurement, including students' understanding, the mathematics of measurement, estimation and…

By studying and practicing metacognition, teachers and parents are instilling positive attitudes toward learning by teaching how-to-learn skills that prepare children for assessing their own thinking about learning as they become more and more developmentally prepared. This book stresses the strategies for thinking in mathematical terms without…

A first grade teacher in a rural elementary school in upper East Tennessee observed that her students needed a better way to improve their computation skills than those of traditional instructional methods. The school system's new Mathematics textbook was correlated with commercial Mathematics software. The teacher wanted to find out if using this…

The equivalence of multiple-choice (MC) and constructed response (discrete) (CR-D) response formats as applied to mathematics computation at grade levels two to six was tested. The difference between total scores from the two response formats was tested for statistical significance, and the factor structure of items in both response formats was…

Reviews the principles of Monte Carlo calculation and random number generation in an attempt to introduce the direct and the rejection method of sampling techniques as well as the variance-reduction procedures. Indicates that the increasing availability of computers makes it possible for a wider audience to learn about these powerful methods. (CC)

Magic squares are used both as a vehicle for arithmetic drill and the development of mathematical concepts for second-grade students. By searching for patterns within the squares, additional number concepts are developed along with the concept of symmetry. (JP)