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)

Describes two main categories of mental activity used by students in mathematics classes: mental mathematics and mathematical thought. Calls for the continuation of teaching mental mathematics and asks for the inclusion of mathematical thought in the national curricula. (MKR)

Deaf and hearing college students' mean reaction times (RTs) were compared on a mental calculation task in which they had to verify the accuracy of solutions to addition and multiplication problems. The deaf students were divided into higher and lower readers. Higher deaf readers and hearing students had similar RTs and accuracy on addition…

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…

This book, written by participants of a joint Japan-United States seminar, drawing upon years of classroom and research experience, examines how computation applies in basic and far-reaching ways, starting in early childhood and continuing throughout individuals' lives. The book presents both the Japanese and American views of computational…

Because little is presently known about changes in children's knowledge of the logical principles of arithmetic and, more specifically, about how children's developing knowledge is reflected in the use of solution procedures, two types of three-term arithmetic problems were presented for solution to 6-, 7-, 9-, 11-, and 20-year-olds. Problems were…

A BOOKLET DESIGNED FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS TO BE USED INDEPENDENTLY FROM AND IN ADDITION TO THE REGULAR CLASSROOM CURRICULUM IN MATHEMATICS IS PRESENTED. THE FIFTH- OR SIXTH-GRADE STUDENT IS GIVEN PRACTICE IN WORKING PROBLEMS IN SUBTRACTION AND DIVISION. SHORT CUTS AND HINTS ARE PRESENTED THROUGH EXAMPLES, SAMPLE PROBLEMS, AND ANSWERS. THE…

Two simple quantitative models were derived from a series of experiments which explored the role of information storage in working memory when performing mental arithmetic. The decay model is a tractable analysis of a complex task which assumes a decay process in working storage. Similar analyses are recommended for problem solving activities…

This case study examined the performance of a 13-year-old highly skilled mental calculator on mental multiplication tasks. She solved difficult tasks by using various ingenious calculation methods, including distributing, factoring, and recalling the product directly. Implications for instruction are reported. (Author/RH)

Four worksheets and teaching suggestions are presented, with the focus on mental computation for levels 2-3; factors, levels 3-4; and nonroutine problems, levels 5-6 and 7-8. (MNS)

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)

Studied for three years were eight Swedish classes with pupils aged 10-12 using calculators whenever they could be of use, along with experimental textbooks. The experimental classes were as competent as control classes in mental arithmetic and calculations with simple algorithms, and had better understanding of numbers and problem solving. (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…