Introduction

Students should learn their facts rather than memorize them. Basic facts are the foundation for most of the math that students will learn in school. There is a specific developmental approach to teaching and learning facts. As students are learning their facts, there are different approaches to working with numbers. When students have achieved mastery they are efficient, flexible, accurate, and automatic. They understand when and how to use appropriate strategies. Subtraction is much more difficult for many students throughout the grades. A firm foundation in subtraction will do wonders for students later on. Students should be not only consumers but also producers of technology. Students should practice number combinations in ways that build understanding and familiarity. The cycle of engagement builds a strong understanding of the facts by having students first work concretely, then pictorially, and finally abstractly.