"To solve and interpret the problems that occur in our world, the NCTM recognizes that children must foster a solid understanding of, and proficiency with simple calculations. Knowledge of these basic facts is the foundation for proficiency in mental math and estimation."
Knowing that 8 X 7 = 56 is a basis for finding:
| Knowing that 8 X 7 = 56 is a basis for finding: |
| (-8) X 700 mentally |
multiplying (+8) X (-7) |
| estimating 824 X689 |
estimating 8.24 X 6.89 |
How Computational Skills Contribute to the Meaningful Learning of Arithmetic
Less attention may be given to performing long computation with great speed. However, much more attention must be given to learning the basic facts, performing mental computation and estimating results.
There are at least four specific reasons for knowing basic facts:
- Facilitates learning of related topics
- Students understand meaning and significance of arithmetic operations.
- It facilitates an exploration of various topics, generalizations from data, and the recognition of generalizations.
- It has considerable social utility.
Katherine Hamrick & William MC Killip
NCTM Yearbook
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