Many fraction activities rely on the use of area models for developing partitioning skills. These models, however, are limited in their ability to assist students to visualise a fraction of an object when the whole changes. This article describes a fraction modelling activity that requires the transfer of water from one container to another. The…

Using investigations in teaching mathematics has for many years become an established feature of most curricula around the world. Investigations can be a vehicle for enabling children to experience the genuine excitement that comes from mathematical discovery. The true spirit of inquiry and investigation lies in the mind-set that continually asks…

One of the best known numbers in mathematics is the number denoted by the symbol [pi]. This column describes activities that teachers can utilize to encourage students to explore the use of [pi] in one of the simplest of geometric figures: the circle.

Discusses some surprising properties of the natural numbers set such as axioms for natural numbers and mathematical induction. (ASK)

Describes the use of investigations for the purpose of assessment, teaching, and learning. Lists types of questions that can be included in investigations. Explains how to write an investigation and provides some examples. (ASK)

Presents a probability activity addressing students' misconceptions regarding the Law of Large Numbers. Provides students with better conceptual understanding of the Law of Large Numbers. (ASK)

Suggests that student writing has definite benefits for mathematics learning. Presents five activities to help teachers use writing in their mathematics classes. (ASK)

Provides practical applications of elementary coordinate geometry while discussing how mathematics is used to assess the security of systems. (ASK)

Describes some general techniques for making collapsible models, including spiral models, for all the Platonic solids except the cube. Discusses the nature of the dissections of the faces necessary for the construction of the spiral cube. (ASK)

Discusses an algorithm that converts a fraction in simplest form into a terminating decimal and allows students to explore the efficacy and conceptual bases of a mathematical algorithm. (ASK)

Presents a mathematics learning cycle that can be use in teaching mathematics and gives two examples of how this learning cycle can be utilized in mathematics classrooms. (ASK)

Presents an activity in which students study mathematically the structure of the most perfect building ever created, the Parthenon. Focuses on the conic sections. (ASK)

Presents an activity on polyominoes and soma cubes in which students look for patterns. Presents the author's personal reflection on her practical teaching experiences as a student teacher. (ASK)

Continues analyzing some fundamental mathematical ideas on logic and proof. Provides some sample problems and their solutions. (ASK)

Outlines the embedded mathematics in which important but hidden calculations are being done for communications in commerce. Explains two key concepts, error detecting codes and error correcting codes. Illustrates these ideas using two familiar examples, barcodes and ISBN numbers. (ASK)