Six different methods were used by students to solve the problem of finding the area of a given trapezoid. A seventh method used by textbooks is also discussed. (MP)

Calculators are seen to shift the student focus in problem-solving situations from "how to do it" to "what to do," by keeping computation from standing in the way when pupils write or solve problems. (MP)

Four specific problems are presented, discussed, and extended to illustrate how diverse instructional strategies, materials, and resources can be used to develop problem-solving skills. (MP)

Learning activities based on a geometrical puzzle that consists of rearranging triangles and trapezoids are used to teach concepts involving area. (MP)

A unique problem solving activity involving student lockers in a junior high school is presented. The activity embodies numerous mathematical concepts and has successfully motivated pupils to explore related mathematical ideas. (MP)

The use of pictures created by students as aids in the learning of mathematical concepts and the problem solving process is promoted. (MP)

Presents 5 activities for the K-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-8 grade levels and for in the home in which students explore the concept of combinations. Each activity includes a lesson plan to investigate a combinatorics problem appropriate for that grade level. Provides reproducible worksheets. (MDH)

Presents seven scenes showing everyday classroom situations that give students the options of applying their own problem-solving strategies to solve everyday problems of life and enable them to experience mathematical power coming from self-initiated insights into mathematical concepts. (MDH)

Described are activities within extended problem-solving settings which allow middle school mathematics students, particularly at-risk students, to determine applications for a wide range of mathematical processes and concepts. Emphasis is on reality-based projects which often require more than one step as preparation for future consumer…

Highlights combinatorial problems appropriate for students aged 4 to 12 years that utilize manipulatives in a hands-on approach. Examines and identifies students' strategies and self-monitoring techniques that produce effective problem solving. (MDH)

Presents a unit to review geometric concepts and problem solving by having students work cooperatively to discover geometric shapes constructed from two congruent right triangles obtained from cutting a rectangle along its diagonal. Students report their findings both orally and in writing. (MDH)

Presents three features of "Good" questions: requires students to do more than simply remember a strategy to answer; promotes student learning while answering the question; and have several acceptable answers. Considers how questions can be used to cater to the range of student abilities. (MDH)

Preservice elementary teachers worked cooperatively to explore the relationship between the measure of the central angle and the number of sides of regular polygons using the reflection of a line in a hinged mirror. The experience involved conjecture and experimentation, communication, and building connections between science, geometry, and…