Recent research in problem solving has shifted its focus to actual classroom implementation and what is really going on during problem solving when it is used regularly in classroom. This book seeks to stay on top of that trend by approaching diverse aspects of current problem solving research, covering three broad themes. Firstly, it explores the…

This guide is a revised and updated edition of "Making It Count." This version contains much of the information from the earlier publication but also includes strategies for using project-based learning and Web-based instructional programs to support the development of mathematics proficiency for youth in short-term juvenile correctional…

This guide is designed to support the development of mathematics proficiency for youth in short-term juvenile correctional facilities. Mathematics proficiency includes mastery and fluency in foundational numeracy; an understanding of complex, grade-appropriate concepts and procedures; and application of those competencies to solve relevant,…

Suggests using games to teach students how to ask effective questions. Games include "I've Got a Secret,""What's My Career,""To Tell the Truth,""Jeopardy,""Stump the Teacher,""Ten Q," and "Question Circle." (KC)

Inquiry is defined here as the scientist's method of problem solving. Presents a bent wire phenomenon activity designed to engage students in the active process of solving a problem in science. A model is proposed to explain the phenomenon. (MA)

Using questions to help students think mathematically and solve problems is discussed. The teacher's role is described, with a classroom example involving questions about a specific problem. (MNS)

The skill of asking appropriate intermediate questions during problem solving is discussed. Several problems and other classroom activities are also presented. (MNS)

Facetiously examines heuristics in mumbling, staring, moving, doodling, and noise that can be used by writing teachers to help their writing students with rhetorical invention. (RL)

Discusses Means-End Critical Analysis of Subject Matter (MECA*SM), a new instructional approach that allows subject matter and critical thinking to be taught simultaneously through the use of Socratic questioning and systematic problem solving. (DMM)

The column for teachers of deaf students addresses issues in mathematics instruction including the impact of calculators, the need to ask students more "why" questions, the value of students writing about mathematics, and the effectiveness of pairing students for problem solving. (DB)

Critical thinking skills that can be applied to reading can be developed through means other than reading. Teachers can launch class discussions of popular films, such as "E.T.," to nurture these skills, a technique especially helpful for children who have difficulty with the printed word. (PP)

Discusses five strategies to use in creating an environment that will foster the development of critical thinking. To make thinking the subject of instruction; focusing on the key aspects of higher-order thinking; providing opportunities for continual, explicit practice; questioning and developing an investigative nature; and reinforcing the…

Maintains that children's thinking skills can be developed and improved through discussions of children's literature. Provides suggestions of how teachers can help students to develop their thinking through questioning techniques and children's literature. Also presents various teaching strategies involving learning activities that allow students…

This article describes how gifted primary children can play with and extend mathematical concepts when guided with appropriate leading questions that scaffold their explorations. Suggested activities help children explore binary numbers, triangular numbers, squares and square roots, prime numbers, fractions, percentage, ratios, calculator work,…

Focusing on the question that is being discussed in a mathematics lesson is suggested as an approach to teaching developmental mathematics at the college level. Ways in which students can be involved with the question are described. First, some contagious cliches that are used by students are given. Then a few antidotal aphorisms and educational…