Noting that ratios can be used to great advantage in scoring informal reading tests, such as the cloze procedure and the informal reading inventory, this paper explains the procedures for calculating cross-ratios and percentages when computing scores for informal reading assessments. Examples are provided for using ratios to determine scores for…

The differences in responses of grade 6 boys and girls to selected items on a standardized test are examined. Data are the responses of approximately 36,000 children during 1978-79 to two test forms of the California Assessment Program's Survey of Basic Skills: Grade 6 (SBS:6). Performance on specific arithmetic items is studied and involves the…

A preliminary framework for research on effects of calculators on mathematics learning is presented. A research methodology is urged that places less emphasis on tight controls, exact replicability, and numbers amenable to statistical analysis. New curriculum needs to be developed that looks at the calculator as a mechanism to be explored in its…

Three different methods of teaching fraction computation were compared using community college student scores on measures of fraction computation, fraction understanding, and attitude towards mathematics. One method used conventional algorithms; the second, a control for the effect of using a calculator, used conventional algorithms and…

Thirteen research reports related to mathematics education are abstracted and critiqued in this publication. The topics of the research include counting, addition, subtraction, ratio, proportion, geometry, problem solving, and teaching strategies. Also included is an editorial comment by T. Kieren on mathematics education research. Research…

The study of computational errors among sixth grade students included identification and classification of errors, investigation of the effects of two feedback treatments and of classwork and homework on error patterns, and investigation of the relationships of error patterns with intelligence, mathematics achievement, attitudes toward…

A scheme which classifies the instructional applications of computers is designed to overcome the confusion created by the imprecision and equivocation associated with computer terminology. The classification is restricted to instructional applications, allows that some applications could apply to more than one category, and reflects a continuum…

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between a student's confidence in his computational procedures for each of the four basic arithmetic operations and the student's achievement on computation problems. All of the students in grades 5 through 8 in one school system (a total of 6186 students) were given a questionnaire to…

Boys' and girls' achievement in arithmetic computation was compared with their feelings of self-confidence in performing computations. A total of 2654 girls and 2786 boys from grades 5 through 8 in one school system participated. Each student was given a test to assess the degree of self-confidence in methods of performing the four basic…

A previous study had confirmed that a substantial number of low achievers in grades 5 through 8 had high algorithmic confidence in each of the four arithmetic operations with whole numbers. The purpose of the present study was to follow up the results through interviewing low achievement-high confidence students in order to ascertain if they…

Research in the use of calculators, both office models and electronic hand calculators, indicates that while most students do not improve achievement they are more willing to do class work with them. However, noncalculator math skills are still needed. (MF)

A three-phase salary review process conducted at one university is used to illustrate issues involved in determining salary equity. It describes salary policies, determining possible discrimination due to minority group status and determining salary adjustments of individual faculty in the minority group being discriminated against. (Author/LBH)

An activity is presented in which students use eight-place pocket calculators to demonstrate their knowledge of correct order of operations for mathematical expressions. After performing an indicated computation and getting a result, the student inverts the calculator to obtain a word or abbreviation to be entered in a crossword puzzle. (MN)

Ways to use a calculator as an integral part of mathematics instruction in existing curricula are provided. Activities are proposed that will help children think about mathematics rather than merely push buttons. (MN)

The author pinpoints those aspects of education where calculators seem sure to have an impact and quotes from several reports that outline some of the short-term and long-term things mathematics educators may need to do to bring about an orderly and fruitful adjustment to calculators. (MN)