schools of mental calculation

Schools of mental calculation refer to different approaches or methods used to perform arithmetic mentally. They include: 1. **Abacus-based methods**, which simulate the use of an abacus to visualize calculations. 2. **Number sense strategies**, focusing on understanding numerical relationships and properties to simplify problems. 3. **Algorithmic approaches**, based on formal procedures like traditional multiplication, addition, or subtraction steps. 4. **Triangular or visual methods**, using geometric or visual patterns to aid calculation. These schools emphasize different skills—either visualization, understanding number patterns, or algorithmic rules—to enhance mental arithmetic efficiency.