Mental Computation And Estimation PDF Download

The study sought to investigate how Grade 3 students from two separate schools learned mathematics. The study explores the role of mental computation when students are engaged in sharing their invented strategies. I observed students sharing ideas and teachers implementing mental computation lessons over fifteen sessions. Interviews with students and teachers, copies of students' journal on mental math strategies were used to collect additional data. The findings were organized around descriptive moments; as I described how students were absorbed in mathematical conversation when they were invited to think mathematically and also encouraged to use their own strategies. I drew on the epistemology of constructivism in problem solving, to understand how students develop conceptual understanding of mathematics when given the opportunity to explain their own strategies. Students' cooperation in sharing their inventions was observed in class and group discussions, as well as in pairs with classmates. It was at these levels where the students: (a) eagerly invented numerous strategies for solving addition, subtraction and multiplication problems; (b) made sound arguments in support of their ideas when discussing problem solving strategies; (c) were cooperative in presenting their strategies; (d) learned from each other by listening to one another's explanations; (e) learned from correcting their errors; and (f) used their cognitive backgrounds as useful heuristics in their discussions. The students expressed their satisfaction and enjoyment during their collaborative learning and social interactions. The teachers used questioning strategies, among other teaching principles, to help students to complete their presentations. These included leading questions, probing and follow-ups, checklisting and student-specific questioning strategies. The study informs teachers about how mental mathematics lessons were implemented in the two Grade 3 classrooms to help the students understand mathematics. Teachers should be given courses, workshops and supportive programs on implementing mental computation lessons. This will give teachers the necessary experiences to increase their understanding of how students improve their understanding of mathematics when they are encouraged to share their inventions in class. The study provides a useful template for future studies in all subject areas of mathematics related to mental computation and estimation at all grade levels.