Using De Moivre's theorem and a parametric graphing utility, examines powers and roots of complex numbers and allows students to establish connections between the visual and numerical representations of complex numbers. Provides a program to numerically verify the roots of complex numbers. (MDH)

This paper merges state-of-the-art calculator technology with examples drawn from the Harvard Consortium Calculus Curriculum. A brief rationale for selection of the Harvard project and the TI-85 is provided, and four different mathematical situations are examined using different capabilities of the TI-85. Two short TI-85 programs are given.…

In polar coordinates, the intersection of the graphs of two functions, f(x) and g(x), does not always correspond to the solutions of the equation f(x) = g(x). Presented are examples to illustrate this concept, proofs demonstrating why this is true, and a computer program to simultaneously plot polar coordinate graphs. (MDH)

Discusses Newton's method for approximating the roots of functions, indicating that students who program in BASIC can learn and appreciate the method by writing their own programs. Includes a hypothetical dialogue between teacher and student about the topic; sample program listings; and problems assigned to students who have written programs. (JN)

Discusses activities to help students make visual generalizations about power and exponential functions, methods to determine an approximate function represented by data using logarithms, hands-on activities, and student activity sheets. Includes a Pascal Turbo computer program which generates random numbers. (MKR)

In this middle school mathematics unit two imaginary characters, Horatio and Portia, decide to make their fortune in Quincy Market (Boston, Massachusetts) running a Bull Market cart. In order to solve the problems that they encounter, they need to learn ratio and proportion, map reading, estimation, area and perimeter, population sampling, problem…

Presents an easy-to-use Applesoft BASIC program that graphs rational functions and any asymptotes that the functions might have. Discusses the nature of rational functions, graphing them manually, employing a computer to graph rational functions, and describes how the program works. (TW)

Explores alternative strategies to solve algebraic equations that do not lend themselves to traditional methods. Examines one nontraditional equation by a graphical approach using a graphing utility and by a numerical approach using spreadsheets. Discusses new basic skills for algebra utilizing technology. Provides a computer program to solve…

A narcissistic number is a positive integer equal to the sum of its digits raised to an integral power. For example, 15 is equal to 1-cubed plus 5-cubed plus 3-cubed (a narcissistic number of order three). A computer program to find narcissistic numbers up to 10,000 is given and discussed. (JN)

Presents a classroom-tested, easy-to-use, multipurpose program (written in Applesoft BASIC) for graphing equations. A complete listing of the program (which is suitable for a wide range of applications in grades 7-12 mathematics classrooms) is included. (JN)

Described is a recursive LOGO method for dissecting polygons into congruent parts (rep tiles) similar to the original polygon, thereby producing unexpected patterns. A list of descriptions for such dissections is included along with suggestions for modifications that allow extended student explorations into tile patterns. (JJK)

Describes the approach taken and materials used for introducing computer symbolic mathematics to undergraduate calculus students. Explains the features of the muMATH software package and reviews the modifications that were made to the program. Includes an exercise on plotting graphs. (ML)

Describes numerical differentiation and the central difference formula in numerical analysis. Presents three computer programs that approximate the first derivative of a function utilizing the central difference formula. Analyzes conditions under which the approximation formula is exact. (MDH)

Presents several ways that the microcomputer can be used as an aid in teaching various topics in calculus, including graphing functions, solving equations, finding limits and derivatives, and solving optimization problems. Emphasizes the use of computer software that tends to maximize the potential of computer graphics in mathematics instruction.…

Discusses several ways in which the Logo programming language can be used to experiment with and learn about matrices. Describes procedures for developing a Logo tool to establish a matrix representation, as well as others for adding, subtracting, and transposing. (TW)