Research on Learning and Teaching Addition and Subtraction of Whole Numbers

This chapter summarizes current research that is relevant to the learning and teaching of addition and subtraction of whole numbers ranging from simple small number situations through the multidigit algorithms. It summarizes results from these areas of research but, because of the relative amounts of research available, concentrates most heavily on children's thinking. The chapter concerns single-digit sums and differences between 10 and 18, more complex addition and subtraction situations (and word problems), and the several more complex solution procedures children use to solve such situations. Many children in kindergarten and first grade will use the direct modeling solution procedures discussed in the section called "Simple Addition and Subtraction Situations", but many other children will use the more sophisticated procedures discussed in the "Levels of Solution Procedures" section. The chapter differentiates children's conceptual structures by developmental level and by the size of the numbers added and subtracted.