Research indicates that calculators can promote mathematics achievement. Some topics with which calculators can aid are briefly discussed: problem solving, number ideas, counting, basic facts, and computation with whole numbers and decimals. (MNS)

Two teaching studies were conducted, based on a descriptive framework and diagnostic interviews described previously. In the pilot study, low-achieving students were taught individually; in the main study, they were taught in a group. Performance improved in both cases. (MNS)

Children's solutions to simple word problems requiring addition or subtraction skills develop through four stages: (1) modeling with objects; (2) utilization of both modeling and counting strategies; (3) reliance on counting strategies; and (4) reliance on number facts. The current primary mathematics curriculum fails to capitilize on rich…

The importance of encouraging students to think about their actions in playing educational games is noted. A game is presented with mathematical topics that could be explored and variations on the game described. (MNS)

Some benefits of helping learners think in prime numbers are detailed. Reasons for the decay of this ability are described, with short division presented as one activity which should be reintroduced in schools. (MNS)

A pack of 23 number games was devised for use by all primary grade children, regardless of physical or sensory disability. The games use all or part of a pack of 100 cards. Some experiences with the games are presented, as well as some illustrations of the games. (MNS)

The origin and current meaning of numeracy are explored. The relationships among the discipline, subject, and common use of mathematics are discussed, and barriers to modification of the school mathematics curriculum are described. (MNS)

A model is proposed in which the quantification of inverse proportionality is developed beyond the initial qualitative relation. Based on a task analysis, the model was tested with 36 eleven-year-old students in a training experiment using a balance task. (MNS)

Deriving all Pythagorean triples from simple patterns within an addition table is presented, with formulas included. (MNS)

Using sweeps to find areas, applications of reflections to miniature golf, and zeroing in on zeroes are each considered in the brief articles in this department. (MNS)

Having students try to generate their own random numbers can lead to much discovery learning as one tries to create 'patternlessness' from formulas. Developing an equidistribution test and runs test, plus other ideas for generating random numbers, is discussed, with computer programs given. (MNS)

The mechanisms, images, and language needed for the development of rational-number ideas are briefly discussed. Such ideas are sophisticated and different from natural-numbers ideas. (MNS)

This report on mathematics education in Soviet elementary schools was prepared by a writer for the Novosti Press Agency in Moscow. It notes that mathematics is taught by subject specialists beginning in grade 4 and provides details on both curriculum and instructional practices. (MNS)

Methods of finding algebraic expressions to fit number patterns are explored. (DT)

Activities are described which make use of rectangular arrays as a means of illustrating multiplication facts and the distributive property. (DT)