It might be said that for most occupations there is now less of a need for mathematics than there was say fifty years ago. But, the author argues, geometry, probability, and statistics constitute essential knowledge for everyone. Maybe not the geometry of Euclid, but certainly geometrical ways of thinking that might enable us to describe the world…

Educators are continuously looking at innovative ways to teaching and working with students of all ages. The tools used range from the simplest technologies, such as chalk and pencils, to the high-tech tools involving computers and information systems. The best tools and strategies often invoke the use of the old and new or the old in a new way.…

In this article, the author describes the Lutterloh method of making dress patterns, which was developed in Germany in the 1930s. The underlying principle involves the modification of basic designs and it is claimed that it provides better fits for women of different sizes and shapes than do other commercially available patterns. The method is…

Uses pentominoes to examine the concepts of congruence, similarity, transformations, tessellations, networks, perimeter, area, and volume in a problem-solving, cooperative learning environment. Discusses the construction of three-dimensional pentominoes. (YP)

A problem sometimes called Moser's circle problem where a circular region has to be partitioned with chords without any three chords intersecting at one point, is discussed. It is shown that Moser's circle problem makes the students to use a variety of mathematical tools to find correct solutions to problems and gives an opportunity to think about…

Using the seasons in the science classroom increases student observation skills as they focus on subtle differences such as shades of color and differences in structures. In this article, the author presents a variety of activities that can help students identify and demonstrate patterns and changes in leaf or plant development. The ability to…

In the manufacturing industry, many complex tasks are taught through an apprenticeship program; the experience and expertise gained through years of practice is invaluable to the industry and can be lost if not properly captured and transferred. This paper reports on the design of a training system that combines the use of computer-based…

Discusses six activities from concrete to abstract related to geometric patterns. The stages of the activities are familiarization, starting point, walkabout, do-it-yourself, and investigation. Provides pictures of diverse patterns. (YP)

Discusses the golden ratio and how to make golden triangles using recursive Logo programs. Presents some outputs of the Penrose tile patterns. (YP)