Presents a method blending ideas from logic, algebra, and operators to devise discrete functions that yield the same truth values as the truth tables associated with specific logic statements. Introduces mechanisms that encourage students to discover examples of discrete functions, approximately represent logic statements, and provides examples of…

Presents an algorithm to estimate pi by approximating a unit circle with a sequence of inscribed regular polygons. Demonstrates the application of the algorithm with a hand-held calculator and an Apple computer. Provides a program to calculate pi in Pascal programing language. (12 references) (MDH)

Provided are three program listings which may be used to illustrate this fractal figure. Extensions of these algorithms and their use in the study of chaos and fractals are suggested. (CW)

MathFINDER brings over 1,100 lessons from 30 of the best mathematics curricula and is designed to implement all National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards in seconds using the most complete database of lessons linked to the Standards. The user can match lessons with Standards instantly, print them out, and use them immediately in…

Illustrates how muMATH can be used for manipulating abstract differentiation rules, optimization, implicit differentiation, related rules, and verifying the chain rule. (MVL)

Describes a form of adaptive communication, referred to as single switch technology, as a method for assessing and developing mathematics skills of speech and motor disabled students. Provides a BASIC program to illustrate a basic single switch mathematics program. (MDH)

The programing language PROLOG is compared to LOGO in terms of its ability to handle mathematical ideas. This is demonstrated by using PROLOG in solving a geometric theorem and two lemmas. The listings of the computer programs used to solve the problems are included. (KR)

A mult tile is a set of polygons each of which can be dissected into smaller polygons similar to the original set of polygons. Using a recursive LOGO method that requires solutions to various geometry and trigonometry problems, dissections of mult tiles are carried out repeatedly to produce tile patterns. (MDH)

The Bock and Aitkin Marginal Maximum Likelihood/EM (MML/EM) approach to item parameter estimation is an alternative to the classical joint maximum likelihood procedure of item response theory. This paper provides the essential mathematical details of a MML/EM solution and shows its use in obtaining consistent item parameter estimates. (TJH)

Offers examples of loss of accuracy when using digital computing devices. Discusses causes for loss of accuracy and methods of preventing loss. Presents implications that loss of accuracy has for mathematics instruction. (MDH)

Presented is an interactive PASCAL computer program that computes the true mortgage interest rate. The half-interval technique, a method from numerical analysis, is incorporated into the program algorithm to approximate a solution of a continuous function on a closed interval. (JJK)

Some mathematics educators feel that too little geometry is taught in elementary schools. This may have serious effects as many students arrive in the traditional high school geometry course without essential backgrounds in informal geometry. The result of this lack of preparation is often lower scores on standardized tests. In this situation,…

Provides a short BASIC program, RANVAR, which generates random variates for various theoretical probability distributions. The seven variates include: uniform, exponential, normal, binomial, Poisson, Pascal, and triangular. (MVL)

Describes examples of student-centered activities for exploring mathematical induction using BASIC programs or spreadsheets. Discusses the advantages of using this medium to teach the concept and provides computer programs for the activities. (MDH)

Includes a list of favorably reviewed microcomputer software designed to be used in instructing students in kindergarten through grade 12. Developed as an aid to educators in previewing software, the list provides the name, type, cost, publisher, and grade level for instructional software in science and mathematics. (TW)