A program designed to calculate pi using a Monte Carlo simulation based on "throwing darts" at a quarter circle of unit radius inscribed in a unit square is presented. (MP)

Using license plates to generate random number pairs, students can calculate an approximate value for pi. The author views this approach as easier to understand than Buffon's needle. (SD)

Describes a model for geometrical probability. Presents two examples of basic theories of probability using geometrical probability. Provides three problems using the described theorem. (YP)

How a computer randomly generates numbers to turn off lighted blocks on a graphics display is discussed. A computer program is given after reviewing a definition and two theorems and applying them to the problem. (MNS)

Five sets of activities for students are included in this document. Each is designed for use in junior high and secondary school mathematics instruction. The first is concerned with the use of models in mathematics. The second contains a variety of activities involving polygonal numbers. The third set of activities includes a variety of games for…

Discusses methods for integrating mathematics with study of culture and history to encourage awareness of its role in everyday life: comparing number words in foreign languages; discussing number origins, numerical symbols of ancient societies, games of skill and chance; and examining different housing styles to develop geometry and measurement…

The problem involves randomly breaking a stick into three pieces and using the pieces to form a triangle. The probability of getting a triangle is calculated using four different solution methods. Two unique problem interpretations are noted, and one solution method involves a BASIC program. (MP)

Presents an activity on probability and area in which students try to decide which door to buy. (ASK)

A collection of student distortions, represented by student-invented variations of theorems, are presented. They were drawn from examination papers of 17-year-old students in Israel. (MNS)

This document suggests sources from children's literature useful in teaching a variety of mathematical concepts. The mathematical concepts discussed are: (1) numbers and numeration; (2) place value; (3) shapes; (4) addition and subtraction; (5) multiplication and division; (6) telling time; (7) probability, estimation and prediction; (8) fractions…

Discusses area models that can be used in grades three through nine, showing how the model generalizes from discrete situations involving the arithmetic of whole numbers to continuous situations involving decimals, fractions, percents, probability, algebra, and more advanced mathematics. (14 references) (MDH)

These materials on geometric probability are the first unit in a course being developed by the Mathematics Department at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. This course is designed to prepare high school students who have completed Algebra 2 for the variety of math courses they will encounter in college. Assuming only a knowledge…

Describes three activities to teach mathematical concepts involving probabilities related to outcomes using "Sicherman" and other dice; geometric representations of algebraic identities; and the volume of a cone. (MDH)

This math curriculum guide, correlated with the numerical coding of the Math Skills List published by the Migrant Student Record Transfer System, covers 10 learning areas: readiness, number meaning, whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percent, measurement, geometry, probability and statistics, and sets. Each exercise is illustrated by a large…

This yearbook contains 20 articles pertaining to geometry instruction. Part 1 considers "Perspectives," with articles on the van Hiele model, resolving dilemmas, implications of using computer graphics, chances of geometry surviving in the secondary curriculum, and role of Euclidean geometry. Part 2 provides "A View of Problem Solving and…