Uses pattern blocks to model basic parts-of-a-whole fraction concepts. Suggests that students reflect these models in oral, written, pictorial, and symbolic representations. (MKR)

Presents an activity that capitalizes on the particular advantages of physical and computer pattern blocks. (KHR)

Describes geometry-related activities that explore tessellation patterns and use origami and paper to create three-dimensional figures and pop-up cards. (MKR)

This manipulative learning aid is featured as a tool that allows a teacher to build upon the recognition of number patterns to teach basic mathematical understanding. The activities provide a means to help children refine, develop, and extend their understanding of the number system. (MP)

Presents activities which use patterns on geoboards or dot paper to develop geometry and measurement concepts. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Discusses the categories of spatial thinking and explains methods for helping students develop spatial thinking skills, ask open-ended questions, and choose student-centered activities. Provides activity examples that involve spatial thinking for elementary grades. (YDS)

Provided are follow-up activities for having students explore the concept of line symmetry. Using a mirror to move a pattern; finding patterns with one, two, or four lines of symmetry; finding asymmetrical patterns; deciding if patterns are different; and solving the problem of finding all patterns possible are discussed. (MNS)

The problem-solving strategy "look for a pattern" is explored. The staircase problem and the region problem are discussed in detail, with varying solution procedures, and three other problem activities are outlined. (MNS)

Presents suggestions for developing algebraic concepts beginning in the early grades to develop a gradual building from informal to formal algebraic concepts that progresses over the K-12 curriculum. Includes suggestions for representing relationships, solving equations, employing meaningful applications of algebra, and using of technology. (MDH)

Activities and games which use dominoes to reinforce basic arithmetic skills are presented. Instructions and materials are provided for the activities and games, most of which involve addition and subtraction. Other skill areas which are covered include recognition and matching of domino patterns, multiplication, and division. A seven-item list of…

Summarizes research conducted within a series of professional development workshops for teachers in grades K-8 which emphasize basic reasoning skills, integrating manipulative materials, and technology. Demonstrates these principles using patterns, relations, and functions as examples. (Author/MKR)

Describes mathematics backpacks containing four mathematics activities designed to (1) strengthen the home-school connection; (2) present open-ended activities that encourage discussion; and (3) engage students and parents in learning mathematical concepts. Provides a sample draft letter to the parents, example activities, guidelines for…

The "Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics" (1989) provides a vision and a framework for revising and strengthening the K-12 mathematics curriculum in North American schools and for evaluating both the mathematics curriculum and students' progress. The document not only addresses what mathematics students should…