“Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” by Dr. Paul Shoecraft is now available for purchase

In “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” by Dr. Paul Shoecraft, the readers will acquire a new perspective on arithmetic and how it can be meaningfully taught, joyfully learned, and a source of inner pride and self-esteem for all children. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.

Dr. Shoecraft may be the only mathematician since the Progressive Education era (that was not progressive) that began in 1880 to seriously analyze the “lowly” subject of arithmetic and how to teach it. In Arithmetic Counts, he explains how every textbook-based math program in every elementary school in America is holding children back in math. In writing this book, he hopes to start another round of national math reform like the New Math in the 1960s for high school math teachers, except this time for elementary school teachers to learn how to make arithmetic a success story for all children.  

Dr. Shoecraft’s breakthrough in how to teach arithmetic came when he experimented with teaching what needs to be understood instead of “known” (memorized) about the subject—like teaching why addition is performed the way it is instead of having children practice thousands of addition problems until the algorithm they are using supposedly becomes cemented in their brains.  

By teaching the essence of arithmetic in sensible ways and appealing to children’s love of games, songs, and movement, he’s proven that virtually ALL children can learn arithmetic—the foundation for algebra, higher mathematics, science, technology, engineering and more, even music!  

When children understand arithmetic, they own it. It’s no longer just their teacher’s math. It’s their math!  

Dr. Shoecraft holds a Master of Science degree in pure mathematics from Northern Arizona University, 1967, and a PhD in mathematics education from the University of Michigan, 1971. 

“Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” delves into the foundational role that arithmetic plays in the journey toward expertise in STEM disciplines. Dr. Shoecraft emphasizes that mastery in mathematics begins with arithmetic, progressing through algebra, geometry, calculus, and beyond. These skills are essential not only for academic success but also for effective communication in business, government, and science, where quantitative matters must be described concisely and precisely.

Dr. Shoecraft echoes the sentiment of Mr. Gates, stating, “I have never met the scientist, technician, engineer, or mathematician who didn’t know arithmetic,” underscoring the critical importance of this foundational skill.

One of the standout features of Dr. Shoecraft’s book is the introduction of MOVE IT Math, a methodology he developed over 50 years ago during his tenure as an Assistant Professor at Arizona State University. This innovative approach was initially designed for a summer math camp and has proven effective in enhancing mathematical understanding.

However, despite its potential, many readers may be surprised to learn that MOVE IT Math has remained largely unknown, leaving America’s educational system without a powerful tool to combat the persistent underperformance in math and science education.

Dr. Shoecraft believes they are necessary to improve math education in America. While he holds off on detailing these changes until later in the book, he sets the stage for a compelling discussion on the need for reform in teaching methodologies. The author’s insights challenge readers to reconsider traditional approaches to math education and to be open to new ideas that could lead to better outcomes for students.

In a world where challenges can often feel overwhelming, Dr. Shoecraft draws inspiration from the words of Charles M. Schulz, creator of Peanuts: “No problem is too big to run away from.” This quote serves as a motivational reminder that every problem, including the difficulties faced in math education, has a solution.

Thus, by embracing the principles outlined in “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” by Dr. Paul Shoecraft and advocating for the adoption of MOVE IT Math, readers are encouraged to confront the challenges of math education head-on, paving the way for a brighter future in STEM fields. This book is not just a call to action; it is a roadmap for transforming how we approach math learning in America.