Front-end estimation is discussed, with several examples, teaching tips, testing tips, and some references on research and additional activities. (MNS)

The focus is on suggestions for teaching rounding wisely as an estimation strategy. (MNS)

Presents a technique for multiplying two-digit numbers whose tens digits are equal and whose units digits have a sum of 10. Then various mental calculations with other types of two-digit and larger numbers are discussed. (MNS)

This paper reports the teacher actions that promoted the development of students' mental computation. A Year 3 teacher engaged her class in developing mental computation strategies over a ten-week period. Two overarching issues that appeared to support learning were establishing connections and encouraging strategic thinking. (Contains 2 figures.)…

This article reports on the English National Numeracy Strategy (NNS) and, in particular, on the way in which children aged from 8- to 11-years-old view "interactive whole class teaching". A qualitative, grounded study of both teachers' and children's perceptions of interactive teaching was undertaken, making use of "video stimulated…

Choosing mental, written, or calculator procedures is important for children to learn. Children should be encouraged to be flexible and consider alternatives when doing mental calculation. Developing mental skills, symbols and rules, and numbers in context are each considered. (MNS)

Ideas are given on how to teach children to make estimates in measurement. (MNS)

Activities on estimation and mental computation are presented. Patterns on a hundred chart, an amazing fact, teaching and testing tips, and other references are included. (MNS)

Use of compatible numbers resulting in easy mental computations is described, along with related teaching and testing tips. (MNS)

Two mental algorithms, one for addition and one for subtraction, are described. It is felt such algorithms should be taught explicitly. The usual process taught for paper and pencil is seen to inhibit mental arithmetic, and a need to include mental algorithms in the regular mathematics curriculum is promoted. (MP)

The abacus is a calculating tool that has been used in Asia for thousands of years. Mental abacus calculation is a skill in which an abacus image in the mind is used without the actual physical manipulation of the abacus. Using this method, people can perform extremely rapid and accurate mental calculations. Research indicates that abacus training…

The history of mental computation in the elementary school curriculum is briefly described, followed by discussion of the benefits of mental computation. How thinking skills are enhanced is then illustrated. (MNS)

Included in this section are brief articles outlining an approach to teaching mental computation, an inductive approach to algebra, and using football to teach probability. (MNS)

The article describes the Mental Mathematics System, a number of formulas designed to develop mathematical skills in elementary and junior high school gifted and talented students. Formulas are provided for multiplication. The formulas for mental mathematics are noted to promote student interest in the subject. (SBH)

Focuses on mental strategies for computing in the middle grades. Describes what they are and why they are important. Refers to relevant research and presents some teaching ideas for developing these strategies beyond the primary grades. Includes a discussion of the role of mental calculation in everyday life both past and future. Contains 27…