Knowing, Doing, and Teaching Multiplication

Abstract

This investigation analyzes the structure and process of multidigit multiplication. It includes a review of recent theories of mathematical knowledge and a description of several fourth-grade math lessons conducted in a regular classroom setting. Four types of mathematical knowledge are identified: intuitive, concrete, computational, and principled knowledge. The author considers each type in terms of its relation to instructional issues and suggests that instruction should focus on strengthening the connections among the four types. Illustrations from instructional sessions show children generating and testing hypotheses when salient connections are made between concrete materials and principled, computational practices. Implications for teaching are discussed along with suggestions for future research.