ABSTRACT
In the last chapter I discussed general reasons why children might make mathematical errors. Here I become more specific: by focusing on the general and the specific I think we can broaden our understanding of mathematics education to good effect. Before teaching any topic, let alone considering the potential problems which might be associated with it, I think it is important to establish as clear a mathematical understanding of the topic as possible. In this chapter, therefore, I will briefly outline the basic principles of place value with the necessary prerequisite skills children require to tackle it. In the next chapter we will explore some of the difficulties associated with the teaching and learning of the fundamental concepts involved. Should your mathematics be sound you might well wish to skip to Chapter 3 where the basic message of the book really begins.
