Multiplication—repeated addition?

Abstract

The elementary school teacher of today needs to have a comprehensive view of eleme ntary mathematics. The present emphasis on the “new” mathematics requires an understanding of number systems such as the natural number system, the whole number system, the rational number system, and the real number system, together with an understanding of some elementary concepts from geometry. This understanding of mathematics can no longer be limited to specific areas covered at one level in graded material, but should encompass the structures of different number systems. One must recognize the role of a specific topic in mathematics in relation to the overall structure of the systems under consideration. Failure to do this often leads to confusion for a student who must relearn or radically alter a previously learned mathematical principle. Such a situation should be avoided.