What can be a consequence of relying too much on pencil and paper?

Relying too much on pencil and paper can lead to decreased numerical fluency because it may inhibit a student's ability to perform calculations mentally or to understand mathematical concepts more deeply. When students become accustomed to always using paper to work through problems, they might not practice and develop their mental math skills or adapt to different strategies that could be more efficient in solving problems.

Effective mathematical learning often involves a balance of different methods, including hands-on activities, mental math, and technology. Over-reliance on any single method can limit students' flexibility in problem-solving and their overall mathematical proficiency. Therefore, promoting a variety of approaches is essential for maintaining and enhancing numerical fluency.