ABSTRACT
The mathematical concepts, connections and skills that students acquire in the elementary grades not only provide a foundation for their further learning but also develop the habits of mind with which students will approach mathematics in the future. Will they perceive mathematical puzzles and problems as interesting, engaging, and challenging? Will they decide that anything related to math is confusing, abstract, and incomprehensible? Will they look forward to math time as a part of their day that is full of variety, interaction, and a sense of accomplishment? Or will they associate math class with a series of worksheets and workbook pages that must be navigated each day—day after day, with more of the same for homework that night?
