How does Everyday Mathematics address computation?
Everyday Mathematics recognizes that, even in the computer age, it is important to teach children how to compute “by hand”. The curriculum is designed to provide all students with a variety of dependable and understandable methods of computation. These methods include traditional algorithms, as well as alternative algorithms that many students find easier to learn and use with greater accuracy. Throughout the program an emphasis is placed on developing computational skills through application-based problem solving. Instead of requiring all students to learn the same computation procedure, by rote, at the same time, Everyday Mathematics aims to make students active participants in the development of algorithms. This process begins by developing students’ background skills and knowledge in three areas: basic fact skills, place value skills, and their understanding of the meanings of operations. Once these background skills are in place, and before students are taught standard algorithms,
