Definitions of estimating and approximating are given and areas where these skills are used (such as practical situations, problem solving, and measurement) are discussed. Nine activities which range from second to twelfth-grade level are suggested. (MK)

Geometric and algebraic solutions to problems involving reflections of balls on a pool table are presented. The question of whether the ball must eventually enter a pocket is explored. A determination of the number of reflections is discussed. (CW)

Possible ways of mechanization for counting using a binary system are discussed. Shows a binary representation of the numbers and geometric models having eight triples of lamps. Provides three problem sets. (YP)

Four categories of abuses are discussed: calculations, games and puzzles; mystical button pushing; and checking answers. Useful activities are illustrated for the categories of calculations, patterns, exploration, applications, and new content. (MP)

Four algebra problems and their solutions are presented to illustrate the use of a mathematical theorem. (CW)

The dynamics of some common sports, such as race walking, running, cycling, jumping, and throwing, are presented. Rough estimates of the relevant physical quantities required for these individual sports are discussed. General mathematical formulas are derived which can be used for judging the performance of any athlete. (Author/KR)

Presented are several geometrical and graphical methods of solving quadratic equations. Discussed are Greek origins, Carlyle's method, von Staudt's method, fixed graph methods and imaginary solutions. (CW)

Presented are five short articles which describe innovations in mathematics teaching. Included are "Polar Summation,""The Age of the Solar System,""Forward Homework--A Motivational Tool,""Trigonometric Identities through Calculus," and "Algorithms for Evaluation of Polynomials." (CW)

This is an activity-oriented guide for general mathematics classes, grades 8-12. Mathematics used includes measurement, estimation, time, computation, ratio, and money. Students assume the role of an industrial engineering technician determining the amount of time allowed and operator pay for completing an operation on a production line. A deck of…

A restaurant menu is used to apply mathematics to real situations. A variety of mathematical problems, as well as applications to other content areas, is suggested. (JT)

Describes examples of rational representation as a guide for translating terminology and information encountered in manuals for computers. Discusses four limitations of the representation. (YP)

Describes how five-year-old children responded to the investigation of looking for patterns in a multiplication square. Provides a 10 x 10 multiplication square for the investigation. (YP)

This overview of a specific spreadsheet, Microsoft's Multiplan for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer, emphasizes specific features that are important to the academic community, including the mathematical functions of algebra, trigonometry, and statistical analysis. Additional features are summarized, including data formats for both numerical and…

A teacher describes a banking unit used in a sixth-grade mathematics class. Students learned the value of money by receiving a pretend paycheck for their chosen occupation and paying weekly, monthly, and annual bills. (MP)

Examples from almanacs are used to provide real-life problems that involve estimating, computing, and thinking. (MP)