Forty years and counting have passed since America was warned about the poor performance of its schools in math and science. Yet, as shown below from the Introduction, international testing still shows that America remains at risk. It indicates that America’s children are still being held back in math in elementary school, just as my classmates and I were in the 1940s.
In “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It,” Dr. Paul Shoecraft offers readers a fresh and insightful perspective on arithmetic, demonstrating how it can be taught with meaning, learned with enthusiasm, and become a source of confidence and personal achievement for children. Proudly published by Citi of Books, the book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.
At the heart of Dr. Shoecraft’s message is a simple yet powerful idea: when children truly understand arithmetic, it becomes their own. Mathematics transforms from something taught in the classroom into a skill they can confidently apply, appreciate, and build upon throughout their lives.
Dr. Shoecraft brings decades of academic expertise to this discussion. He earned a Master of Science degree in Pure Mathematics from Northern Arizona University in 1967 and later completed a PhD in Mathematics Education at the University of Michigan in 1971. His extensive background has shaped a lifelong commitment to improving mathematics education and helping students develop strong numerical foundations.
In the colored edition of “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It,” Dr. Shoecraft explores the essential role arithmetic plays in developing proficiency across STEM fields. He emphasizes that success in mathematics begins with a solid understanding of arithmetic before advancing to algebra, geometry, calculus, and higher-level concepts. Beyond the classroom, these skills are vital in business, government, technology, and science, where clear and precise quantitative communication is indispensable.
Reinforcing the importance of arithmetic, Dr. Shoecraft echoes a statement attributed to Bill Gates: “I have never met the scientist, technician, engineer, or mathematician who didn’t know arithmetic.” This observation highlights the foundational nature of arithmetic in virtually every technical and scientific profession.
A distinctive feature of the book is the introduction of MOVE IT Math, an innovative teaching approach developed by Dr. Shoecraft more than fifty years ago while serving as an Assistant Professor at Arizona State University. Originally created for a summer mathematics program, this methodology was designed to make mathematical concepts more engaging and accessible, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the subject.
Throughout the book, Dr. Shoecraft argues that meaningful improvements in mathematics education are both possible and necessary. While he gradually reveals his proposed reforms, he invites readers to examine long-standing teaching practices and consider new approaches that could lead to stronger learning outcomes and greater student success.
To inspire perseverance in addressing educational challenges, Dr. Shoecraft references a memorable quote from Charles M. Schulz, creator of Peanuts: “No problem is too big to run away from.” Used with a touch of humor and reflection, the quote underscores the idea that every challenge has a solution when approached with determination and creativity.
Ultimately, “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” serves as both a call for educational reform and a practical guide for improving mathematical understanding. By embracing the principles outlined in the book and considering the potential of MOVE IT Math, educators, parents, and policymakers can help create a stronger foundation for future generations, opening new opportunities in STEM and beyond.
Grab your copy of “Arithmetic Counts!: Why Americans Have Trouble with Math and How to Fix It” (Colored Version) by Dr. Paul Shoecraft through the buttons below: