[Maths-Education] Subtraction

[Ian Thompson]

Most books on teaching mathematics discuss 'the two aspects of subtraction:
'take away' and 'difference'.

Since the most efficient way to solve difference problems is usually by
addition, and since 'difference' is commutative whereas 'take away' (and
subtraction generally) is NOT, why do we persist in linking difference with
subtraction?

Ian Thompson
Department of Education,
University of Newcastle upon Tyne
St Thomas St
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 7RU
U.K.

Tel. (+44) (0)191 222 6375
Fax   (+44)( 0)191 222 8170