This paper presents research activity in the solution of geometric tasks by mathematics teachers and by mathematics teacher trainees at a College of Education as part of an advanced courses. This activity tested the level of knowledge and ability to apply it in the solution of problems that can be solved in a number of ways: by using various tools…

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…

We present results from a classroom-based intervention designed to help a class of grade 10 students (14-15 years old) learn proof while studying trigonometry in a dynamic geometry software environment. We analysed some students' solutions to conjecture-and-proof problems that let them gain experience in stating conjectures and developing proofs.…

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.

Dynamic geometry software can help teachers highlight mathematical relationships in ways not possible with static diagrams. However, these opportunities are mediated by teachers' abilities to construct sketches that focus users' attention on the desired variant or invariant relationships. The study described in this paper looked at two cohorts of…

Researchers promoting the inclusion of technology for teaching and learning have recently called for the integration of mathematical technologies into the preparation of future teachers. This report analyzes the dynamic geometry sketches produced by preservice secondary mathematics teachers when investigating trigonometric relationships. We…

In 1999, Richard Lee Colvin published an article in "The School Administrator" titled "Math Wars: Tradition vs. Real-World Applications" that described the pendulum swing of mathematics education reform. On one side are those who advocate for computational fluency, with a step-by-step emphasis on numbers and skills and the…

In the summer of 2009, a professional development partnership was established between the Peoria Public School District (PPSD), a local education agency (LEA), and Illinois State University (ISU) to improve geometric and trigonometric knowledge and skill for high school mathematics teachers as part of the Illinois Mathematics and Science…

This paper was prepared in response to the Conference Board of Mathematical Sciences recommendations for the preparation of secondary teachers. It shows how using trigonometry as a conceptual tool in spreadsheet-based applications enables one to develop mathematical understanding in the context of constructing geometric representations of unit…

Students can learn to make algebra, trigonometry, and geometry work for them by using matrices to rotate figures on the graphics screen of a graphing calculator. Includes a software program, TRNSFORM, for the TI-81 graphing calculator which can draw and rotate a triangle. (MKR)

Describes a method of effectively introducing the concept of radian measure that uses Cabri Geometry II software to construct a circle of arbitrary radius and to measure that radius. The goal is to determine how many of these radii fit around a circle. (DDR)

The concept of trigonometric ratios in a right triangle can be clearly presented through the use of interactive-geometry software. Investigation in this manner allows students to see the crucial features of the concepts before they are formalized and to gain ownership of these ideas through discovery. Many examples of the mathematical…

Discusses the Texas Instruments calculator the TI-92 and how it can be an effective tool in the mathematics classroom. Provides examples of combining the algebra capabilities of the calculator and Cabri-Geometry II with graphing, tables of values, statistics, programming, and a simple text editor to enhance mathematics instruction. (DDR)

The author suggests that spreadsheet computer programs can be an effective tool in the mathematics classroom. In addition to being used to solve many real-world problems, spreadsheets can be used to promote understanding of concepts and principles from geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. (PK)

Suggested are features which should be considered before selecting a specific interactive graphics package. Features that allow for accurate estimates of roots of functions and solutions to systems of equations are illustrated. Six graphics packages are compared including display, tabular options, misleading graphics, printing options, functions…