Presents a classroom-tested, easy-to-use, multipurpose program (written in Applesoft BASIC) for graphing equations. A complete listing of the program (which is suitable for a wide range of applications in grades 7-12 mathematics classrooms) is included. (JN)

Presents an example of mathematics from an algorithmic point of view, with emphasis on the design and verification of this algorithm. The program involves finding roots for algebraic equations using the half-interval search algorithm. The program listing is included. (JN)

Discusses Newton's method for approximating the roots of functions, indicating that students who program in BASIC can learn and appreciate the method by writing their own programs. Includes a hypothetical dialogue between teacher and student about the topic; sample program listings; and problems assigned to students who have written programs. (JN)

Discusses a computer calculus game which follows the path of a parabola in stepwise progression. The educational value of the game is a simple example of nonlinearity, a subject which is just beginning to earn some attention in the mathematical community. The Applesoft program listing is included. (JN)

Three computer programs are listed for finding binomial probabilities. Other applications and variations are discussed. (MNS)

Reviewed are three computer software programs: the Astronomer (astronomy program for middle school students and older); Hands-on-Statistics: Explorations with a Microcomputer (statistics program for secondary school students and older); and CATGEN (a genetics program for secondary school students and older). Each review provides information on:…

Presents four probability problems, their simulations, and analyses. The first illustrates a discrete situation for which it is possible to list the sample space. The second and third are continuous--the number of possible outcomes is infinite. The last is discrete with a surprising continuous extension question which leads to l/e. (JN)

A narcissistic number is a positive integer equal to the sum of its digits raised to an integral power. For example, 15 is equal to 1-cubed plus 5-cubed plus 3-cubed (a narcissistic number of order three). A computer program to find narcissistic numbers up to 10,000 is given and discussed. (JN)

Presents a method for using matrix algebra and computers to encode and decode secret messages. Provides examples of coding procedures, a short review of matrix multiplication, and a BASIC program for use with secret messages containing up to 1000 numbers. (RT)

Described is a strategy that allows students to experiment with probability without applying formulas to solve problems. Students are able to intuitively develop concepts of probability before formal definitions and properties. Sample problems are included along with BASIC programs for some of the problems. (KR)

Discusses a problem involving probability and uncertainty that students can investigate experimentally or theoretically and transforms the problem to a two-player game so that students can be introduced to some fundamental concepts of decision making. Includes computer programs used to analyze the problems. (MKR)

Activities for enhancing students' understanding and interpreting of graphical information is provided. Four worksheets and answers are given. (YP)

Discussed are several different transformations based on the generation of fractals including self-similar designs, the chaos game, the koch curve, and the Sierpinski Triangle. Three computer programs which illustrate these concepts are provided. (CW)

Discusses activities to help students make visual generalizations about power and exponential functions, methods to determine an approximate function represented by data using logarithms, hands-on activities, and student activity sheets. Includes a Pascal Turbo computer program which generates random numbers. (MKR)

Discussed are the use of probability simulations in a mathematics classroom. Computer simulations using regular dice and special dice are described. Sample programs used to generate 100 rolls of a pair of dice in BASIC and Logo languages are provided. (YP)