This study presents the preliminary qualitative results of a larger mixed methods study. The qualitative phase utilized task-based clinical interviews to examine the non-symbolic and symbolic linear generalizations of middle-grades students. This investigation identified similarities and differences in the students' generalizations, and…

Logarithms are notorious for being a difficult concept to understand and teach. Research suggests that learners can be supported in understanding logarithms by making connections between mathematics and science concepts such as pH. This study investigated how an integrated chemistry and mathematics lesson impacted 29 teachers' understanding of the…

This paper describes the author's attempt to design assignments that engage preservice elementary teachers in original mathematical thinking. In particular, the choice of integer operations as the focus of a structured writing assignment that takes students two weeks to complete is explained and justified. Exemplary student work is quoted.…

Mathematical Induction is used for direct proofs of many theorems; its logical equivalent, the Well-Ordering Property, replaced it to yield indirect proofs by contradiction. The author claims the later property is easier to comprehend and that it affords a non-geometrical example of proof by contradiction. (JP)

How mathematics subject matter can be enhanced through the scientific reasoning method, how this integration can be achieved, adaptations needed for a modified approach, and resulting attainments are all considered. Prime numbers using the Sieve of Erastosthenes are the vehicle through which the approach is described. (MNS)

Presented are several methods of introducing nondecimal numeration systems to elementary grade students. Various activities for grouping and/or visual displays are used. Games which incorporate nondecimal grouping ideas are also presented. (JP)

The introduction of prime numbers in the intermediate grades should be handled with care or the concept will appear arbitrary, artificial, and unreal to the pupils. The approach suggested here is in the form of a game-like activity. A knowledge of multiplication and factors is a prerequisite. (BB)

Presented is a historical treatment of computational devices that use counters on a checkerboard. The discussion includes works of John Napier, Walter Minto, and Nicholas Saunderson. (MP)

Describes a study in which 383 children in grades 1 through 5 were individually interviewed to find out at what point they construct unit iteration out of transitive reasoning. Indicates that most children construct unit iteration out of transitive reasoning by fourth grade. Suggests a better approach to the teaching of measurement that presents…

Discusses terminology used by teachers for the symbol "-x" which cause students to become confused. Suggested methods of avoiding this confusion are presented. (JP)

Models for division are discussed: counting, repeated subtraction, inverse of multiplication, sets, number line, balance beam, arrays, and cross product of sets. Expressing the remainder using various models is then presented, followed by comments on why all the models should be taught. (MNS)

The early use of the distributive law can aid students in learning addition of fractions and provide rapid approaches to computation involving other operations. (SD)

The derivation of a method to drive the general term of a sequence is presented. The difference sequences and binomial coefficents are used in the derivation. An application of this method is made to solve Polya's problems concerned with dividing space in regions by a given number of planes. (JP)

Examines the effects of a teaching strategy in which fifth-grade students evaluated the strengths or weaknesses of solution methods to pattern finding problems, including an experimental and control group each consisting of 34 elementary students, in Japan. The experimental group showed a significantly better performance on the retention test…

An approach to the teaching of division of fractions is described. Diagrams illustrating the division process are provided. (SD)