Ditto, no jumping intended.

Jen, I think we're actually closer than I thought to being on the same page, although obviously there's no need for us to be. smile I would call the steps of writing lines here and there, the mechanics of carrying, a "procedure" or something similar, but didn't think you were referring to that specifically by using the word "algorithm" (ex-computer science guy here). But I totally get what you mean and agree. Focusing on writing and rewriting symbols in particular ways could obscure understanding, especially if a kid's not taught the proper concepts in the first place.

Striving to increase my rate of flow, and fight forum gloopiness. sick