A simple teaching model, designed to show rapidly which are the principal factors in population growth and how they are related, is presented. The apparatus described allows students to play several different active roles. (MP)

Mathematical modeling is defined. Examples are used to show that there are models available which illustrate both the traditional use of mathematics in the physical science and its newer use in nonphysical disciplines, and which are at a suitable level for teaching in schools. (Author/MK)

Reports a project that incorporated mathematical modeling into a college course. Reports evaluation of the course in terms of criteria derived from the stated aims: modeling performance, modeling framework, pedagogy assessment, and personal growth. Included are two sample problems. (YP)

Mathematical observations are made about some continuous curves, called transitions, encountered in well-known experiences. The transition parabola, the transition spiral, and the sidestep maneuver are presented. (MNS)

A course in mathematical model-building is described. Suggested modeling projects include: urban problems, biology and ecology, economics, psychology, games and gaming, cosmology, medicine, history, computer science, energy, and music. (MK)

Presents a program to introduce fifth graders to everyday economic life by constructing a true-to-life simulation of an economic community. Students apply mathematics skills to managing a checking account, calculating electric bills, and managing shops using computers. (MDH)

An approach to using the method of least squares, a scheme for computing the best-fitting line directly from a set of points, is detailed. The material first looks at fitting a numerical value to a set of numbers. This provides tools for solving the line-fitting problem. (MP)

Timing stoplights and trying to determine the best way to allocate cycle time to the two directions is discussed. The simple case and improving the model are both considered. (MNS)

The use of continuous simulation is promoted as a teaching tool in the undergraduate curriculum. Simulation, advances in continuous simulation, an approach to teaching system dynamics, computer languages deemed suitable for continuous simulation, and an outline of a prototypic first course in continuous simulation are presented. (MP)

A programing language called DYNAMO, developed especially for writing simulation models, is promoted. Details of six, self-teaching curriculum packages recently developed for simulation-oriented instruction are provided. (MP)

Describes a method, considered appropriate for presentation to undergraduate students in materials science and related courses, for the calculation of cohesive energies of the alkali metals. Uses a description based on the free electron model and gives results to within 0.1 eV of the experimental values. (Author/GS)

Discusses some mathematical games concerning the packing of squares. (HM)

Describes the construction of models of two-dimensional surfaces with negative curvature that are used to illustrate differences in the triangle sum rule for the various Big Bang Theories of the universe. (JRH)

Looks at the solution to the mathematical-modeling problem asking students to find the smallest percent of the popular vote needed to elect a President. Provides assumptions from which to work the problem. (MDH)

Discusses aspects of Christopher Columbus' decision to sail west in order to reach Asia. Includes discussions concerning the shape and size of the earth as determined up to Columbus' time and conclusions he made during the journey based on his calculations. (MDH)