Presents an investigation using data collected by students to explore timelines and pie charts. The activity begins with having students keep a chronological record of their activities for one 24-hour period to create and analyze pie charts that show how they have spent their time. Activity sheet also included. (ASK)

There are many uses for the shortest path algorithm presented which are limited only by our ability to recognize when a problem may be converted into the shortest path in a graph representation. (Author/TG)

Teaching suggestions for graphing the function y=sin 1/x and the greatest integer function are given. (MK)

This is the second edition of a curriculum guide for elementary school mathematics. It is one of a series intended to serve as a model for Alaskan school districts as they develop and review their curriculum documents. Listed are topics and concepts, learning outcomes and objectives, and sample learning activities. The learning activities are…

An examination of a student question concerning a calculus problem leads to a discussion of some of the symmetric properties of a specific set of polynomials. (MP)

An alternative application of logarithms in the high school algebra curriculum that is not undermined by the existence and widespread availability of calculators is presented. The importance and use of linear relationships are underscored in the proposed lessons. (MP)

Discusses a method of cubic splines to determine a curve through a series of points and a second method for obtaining parametric equations for a smooth curve that passes through a sequence of points. Procedures for determining the curves and results of each of the methods are compared. (YP)

Presents examples illustrating how to teach statistics in connection with mathematical concepts. Describes using percentage problems and graphing problems in the classroom. (YP)

The usual methods for solving quadratic equations are noted to require either the use of numerical formula or curve plotting on graph paper. The method described here enables pupils to solve equations using only a 45 degree setsquare, graph paper, and a pencil for those which have both real roots and real coefficients. (Author/MP)

A program designed to plot three-dimensional graphs is described and presented. The program allows the user to select maximum and minimum ranges for X, Y, and Z, and can enlarge a graph on the screen or look at a portion away from the origin. It is in Applesoft BASIC. (MP)

A discussion on the general equation of a line shows how students can be lead to discover mathematical properties, find how one discovery leads to another, see how different branches of mathematics can lead to a solution, and be provided with a starting point for studying special mathematical topics. (MP)

Discussed is the method of substitution of variables within the framework of precalculus level extremum problems, both maximum and minimum. Many examples with graphical representations are provided. (JJK)

This five-lesson unit is designed to give students a flavor of what the study of economics is about, to strengthen mathematical concepts the students already know, to allow them to experience the interrelationship between the two fields of mathematics and economics and to experience success and enjoyment. Topics of instruction include: (1) types…

Activities involving copying, enlarging, and translating stick figures can enhance students' understanding of graphs. (SD)

The lesson described first involved tossing a pair of dice and recording on a graph the sum produced on each roll. Pupils examined questions such as which sum occurred most often. The second part involved a graph that indicated which types of sums were most likely to occur. (Author/MP)