In this study, the conceptualizations used by prospective middle school mathematics teachers when defining, representing, and exemplifying the slope concept and relating it with other mathematical situations were examined. Participants' conceptualizations were identified by Nagle, C., Moore-Russo, D., Viglietti, J., & Martin, K. [(2013).…

Many students do not have a deep understanding of slope. This paper defines what a deep understanding of slope is in terms of mathematics-education theory. The various factors which help explain why such a deep understanding is difficult to acquire are then discussed. These factors include the following: the different representations for slope;…

In this paper, we introduce a technology-enhanced pedagogical sequence for supporting lower secondary school students' sense-making of the concept of volume in a non-procedural and non-formula-driven way. Specifically, we illustrate a novel approach of using dynamic geometric environment (DGE) to introduce the meaning of volume and then deriving…

The purpose of this note is to discuss how paper folding can be used to find the exact trigonometric ratios of the following four angles: 22.5°, 67.5°, 27°, and 63°.

In this paper, we highlight examples from school mathematics in which invariance did not receive the attention it deserves. We describe how problems related to invariance stimulated the interest of both teachers and students. In school mathematics, invariance is of particular relevance in teaching and learning geometry. When permitted change…

A geometrical task is presented with multiple solutions using different methods, in order to show the connection between various branches of mathematics and to highlight the importance of providing the students with an extensive 'mathematical toolbox'. Investigation of the property that appears in the task was carried out using a computerized tool.

Solution of problems in mathematics, and in particular in the field of Euclidean geometry is in many senses a form of artisanship that can be developed so that in certain cases brief and unexpected solutions may be obtained, which would bring out aesthetically pleasing mathematical traits. We present four geometric tasks for which different proofs…

Covariational reasoning has been the focus of many studies but only a few looked into this reasoning in the polar coordinate system. In fact, research on student's familiarity with polar coordinates and graphing in the polar coordinate system is scarce. This paper examines the challenges that students face when plotting polar curves using the…

In some secondary mathematics curricula, there is a topic called Stereometry that deals with investigating the position and finding the intersection, angle, and distance of lines and planes defined within a prism or pyramid. Coordinate system is not used. The metric tasks are solved using Pythagoras' theorem, trigonometric functions, and sine and…

In this short note, by using one of Li and Liu's theorems [K.-H. Li, "The solution of CIQ. 39," "Commun. Stud. Inequal." 11(1) (2004), p. 162 (in Chinese)], "s-R-r" method, Cauchy's inequality and the theory of convex function, we solve some geometric inequalities conjectures relating to an interior point in triangle. (Contains 1 figure.)

A complex technology-based problem in visualization and computation for students in calculus is presented. Strategies are shown for its solution and the opportunities for students to put together sequences of concepts and skills to build for success are highlighted. The problem itself involves placing an object under water in order to actually see…

This article shows how simple instruments may be used to construct angles of certain measures and applies this procedure to more detailed problems. A proof of the Pythagorean Theorem is given using these procedures. (CT)

The geometry of perspective drawing is developed and discussed. (SD)

Reports on the design and trialing of a Hypercard testing procedure known as the Recognition and Testing System (RATS) that will enable mathematics teachers and researchers to generate data relating to domain knowledge representation and its access by focusing on students' knowledge of plane geometry and trigonometry. Contains 11 references.…