In this work, we present a teaching proposal which emphasizes on visualization and physical applications in the study of eigenvectors and eigenvalues. These concepts are introduced using the notion of the moment of inertia of a rigid body and the GeoGebra software. The proposal was motivated after observing students' difficulties when treating…

The use of the dynamic mathematics software GeoGebra to solve geometric problems on conics and loci from an 18th century textbook will be presented. In particular, examples will be shown of how the use of this program helped the authors to understand the method that our predecessors used to deal with conic sections together with solving loci…

The NCTM Algebra Standard suggests that students use technology to explore the effects of varying the parameters in y = ax2 + bx + c. This article discusses an extension of this task that incorporates dynamic geometry software to engage students in generating, testing, and proving mathematical conjectures.

Presents attributes of different types of software including Logo, geometric packages, graphical packages, and spreadsheets, each of which offers different opportunities for learning. Investigates the different ways in which the software allows for performing the given task so as to make the mathematics of the task explicit to users. (KHR)

An activity that shows how mathematics can be used to model events in the real world is described. A way to calculate the area of the sun covered by the moon during a partial eclipse is presented. A computer program that will determine the coverage percentage is also included. (KR)

Presents some activities for both art and mathematics classrooms. Traces the history of geometric art and focuses on a way of drawing tiling using LOGO programming. Describes some of the work on tessellations by the mathematician Roger Penrose and the artist M.C. Escher. Provides websites for further information. (KHR)

Offers a cave-mapping problem and discusses how to solve it. Presents the problem and necessary geologic background and a spreadsheet algorithm to solve the problem. (KHR)

Discusses the use of computer graphics in the teaching of geometry. Describes five types of geometry: Euclidean geometry, transformation geometry, coordinate geometry, three-dimensional geometry, and geometry of convex sets. (YP)

Explores the production of shadows for drawings using the LOGO computer language and Affine Geometry. Explains the methodology of the shadowing and lists the Affine Turtle procedures. Provides for different versions of LOGO. (MVL)

In this paper we consider geometrical construction problems and their role in mathematical education. Owing to the main features of construction problems (accuracy in making conclusions, strict structure, rigorous language and constructivistic nature), they can be fruitfully used in teaching mathematics and computer science. We shall try to shed…

Reviewed are two computer software packages for Macintosh microcomputers including "Phase Portraits," an exploratory graphics tool for studying first-order planar systems; and "MacMath," a set of programs for exploring differential equations, linear algebra, and other mathematical topics. Features, ease of use, cost, availability, and hardware…

Describes how three dimensional LOGO was used in a workshop session for secondary pupils and mathematics teachers. Provides many commands and output drawings. (YP)

Gives definitions of taxicab geometry and the MacDraw format for graphing. In the world of taxicab geometry, movement through the plane is along horizontal and vertical paths. Describes specific application to conic sections, including circle, ellipse, parabola, and hyperbola. Lists five references. (YP)

Describes the Interactive Mathematics Program (IMP), a four-year program of problem-based mathematics that integrates algebra, geometry, and trigonometry with additional topics, such as probability and statistics, and uses calculator and computer technology to enhance student understanding. (MKR)

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)