Problems with apportioning seats within the House of Representatives every 10 years are discussed. The history of the problem and the nature of the politics involved are reviewed, and the current method in use is detailed along with its flaws. A call for a more sensible system is made. (MP)

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)

Describes a pattern which emerged from an examination of the digits of the squares of numbers. Provides eight examples having the pattern at the units or tens digit of the number. (YP)

Five problems on the generation and study of prime and related numbers are discussed. Solutions to the problems posed will be in next month's presentation. (MP)

This is the second unit of a 15-unit School Mathematics Study Group (SMSG) mathematics text for high school students. Topics presented in the first chapter (Informal Algorithms and Flow Charts) include: changing a flat tire; algorithms, flow charts, and computers; assignment and variables; input and output; using a variable as a counter; decisions…

This report explains the mathematical origin of the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) approximation often used in elementary Business Mathematics courses. (MP)

These modules view aspects of computer use in the problem-solving process, and introduce techniques and ideas that are applicable to other modes of problem solving. The first unit looks at algorithms, flowchart language, and problem-solving steps that apply this knowledge. The second unit describes ways in which computer iteration may be used…

Applied mathematics is seen often to involve the solution of single equations or systems of equations. A particular technique for solving equations in the context of functions on the real line is examined. This technique includes an iterative process, which is viewed as an algorithm that can be implemented readily on inexpensive and widely…

This module is designed to apply mathematical models to nuclear deterrent problems, and to aid users in developing enlightened skepticism about the use of linear models in stability analyses and long-term predictions. An attempt is made at avoiding overwhelming complexities through concentration on land-based missile forces. It is noted that after…

This material contains two units which view applications of computer science. The first of these examines Horner's scheme; and is designed to instruct the user on how to apply both this scheme and related algorithms. The second unit aims for student understanding of standard bisection, secant, and Newton methods of root finding and appreciation of…

This student textbook is designed to incorporate programable calculators in grade 12 mathematics. The seven chapters contained in this document are: (1) Using Calculators in Mathematics; (2) Sequences, Series, and Limits; (3) Iteration, Mathematical Induction, and the Binomial Theorem; (4) Applications of the Fundamental Counting Principle; (5)…

This student textbook is designed to incorporate programable calculators in grade 11 mathematics. The eight chapters contained in this document are: (1) Using Calculators in Mathematics; (2) Exponents and Logarithms; (3) Trigonometry of the Right Triangle; (4) Trigonometry Beyong the Right Triangle; (5) Graphs of the Trigonometric Functions and…

Parts one and two of a one-year computer-oriented calculus course (without analytic geometry) are presented. The ideas of calculus are introduced and motivated through computer (i.e., algorithmic) concepts. An introduction to computing via algorithms and a simple flow chart language allows the book to be self-contained, except that material on…

This textbook was designed for a first course in differential and integral calculus, and is directed toward students in engineering, the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. Its major goal is to bring students to a level of technical competence and intuitive understanding of calculus that is adequate for applying the subject to real world…