Why is computational fluency (automaticity) important in Mathematics?
All human beings have a limited information-processing capacity. That is, an individual simply cannot attend to too many things at once. Some of the sub-processes, particularly basic facts, need to be developed to the point that they are done automatically. If this fluent retrieval does not develop, then the development of higher-order mathematical skills, such as multiple digit addition and subtraction, and fractions-may be severely impaired. (Resnick, 1983). “Once procedures are automatized, they require little conscious effort to use, which, in turn, frees attentional and working memory resources for use on other more important features of the problem” (Geary, 1995). Students have learning targets that are coordinated by grade level. Mastery for first through third graders will be 20 or more facts correct per minute, while fourth and fifth graders will be asked to reach 40 correct per minute for mastery. Practice will begin in first grade with only addition and each grade level will
