Research over the past few decades points to ways precalculus and calculus courses can be strengthened to improve student learning in these courses. This research has informed the development of the Algebra and Precalculus Concept Readiness (APCR) and the Calculus Concept Readiness (CCR) assessments. In this article, the authors present three…

University mathematics education courses do not always provide the opportunity to make connections between advanced topics and the mathematics taught in middle school or high school. Activities like the ones described in this article invite such connections. Analyzing concrete or particular examples provides a better grasp of abstract concepts.…

This article shows how to assess student effort towards success in a basic math class using an imaginary salary as a reward.

A program that is used to assist students in overcoming the deficiencies in basic skills in mathematics without making major changes in existing mathematics programs is described. (JT)

A mathematics contest involving competition between high school remedial mathematics classes is described. (DT)

The mathematical skills and competencies necessary for living in contemporary society, for understanding the nature of mathematics as a structural system, and for understanding the role of mathematics in society are listed and discussed. (DT)

Seven questions concerning the role of computation and the role of electronic calculators in arithmetic were posed to a sample of teachers, mathematicians, and laymen. Responses are given in percentage form and typical comments are included. (LS)

Basic skills are defined as the method of inquiry or the process of mathematics. The calculator is discussed as being potentially useful in extending process skills. (MP)

This discussion of the mathematics portion of the examination includes topics covered, test development, and sample questions. (MP)

A case is made against the major argument which implies that the use of a calculator for arithmetic problems that can be done by hand will prevent a student from being able to do arithmetic when the calculator is absent. (MN)

A process for identifying mathematical skills is describe. Skills representing the minimum a student should know in order to function in the United States today are listed. (JT)

Encouraged by public concern for universal competence in the basic computational skills, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, the Missouri and Michigan Councils of Teachers of Mathematics state their positions on the meaning of basic skills. (JT)

A computation learning lab was planned, implemented, and evaluated as a way of helping learners conquer computation problems. Features include: emphasis on a premotivation activity; the use, on a regular basis, of eight instructional strategies; and active parent support. The lab students showed dramatic gains. (MP)

Three games played with regular bridge decks of cards are described. By playing the games students gain practice in use of basic operations on integers and in the development of strategies. (SD)