A question as to the number of stitches needed for a particular triangular crocheted scarf gives rise to the use of several methods of solution including arithmetic series. (MN)

Proposes a method for solving a diffusion equation by a random-walk approximation technique which utilizes the complex intergration method of steepest descent. (SL)

A distinction is made between basic computational skills and skills related to applied mathematics and verbal problem solving. The advantages of using calculators for teaching the latter skills are discussed. (MP)

The opportunity for students to develop formulas that involve tangent lines to a circle and the Pythagorean Theorem and to use approximation and common sense is provided in a suggested distance-to-horizon problem. (MN)

Three biorhythm cycles affecting behavior are discussed and graphed by using basic mathematical operations along with simple graphing techniques. (JT)

Four categories of abuses are discussed: calculations, games and puzzles; mystical button pushing; and checking answers. Useful activities are illustrated for the categories of calculations, patterns, exploration, applications, and new content. (MP)

A restaurant menu is used to apply mathematics to real situations. A variety of mathematical problems, as well as applications to other content areas, is suggested. (JT)

Presented are twenty essays related to applications in school mathematics and aimed at the classroom teacher. The essays use numerous examples and illustrations that provide the teacher with something tangible for immediate use. Four thematic areas are addressed: (1) What are applications?; (2) Why include applications in school mathematics?; (3)…

A teacher describes a banking unit used in a sixth-grade mathematics class. Students learned the value of money by receiving a pretend paycheck for their chosen occupation and paying weekly, monthly, and annual bills. (MP)

Examples from almanacs are used to provide real-life problems that involve estimating, computing, and thinking. (MP)

Presents methods for estimating running speed, length of a broad-jump, height of a pole vault, and time to run up a flight of steps as examples of elementary numerical mechanics. (SL)

Presents a method of reviewing the properties of exponents for students enrolled in a liberal arts physics course. (SL)

Investigates minimizing errors in computational methods commonly used in chemistry. Provides a series of examples illustrating the propagation of errors, finite difference methods, and nonlinear regression analysis. Includes illustrations to explain these concepts. (MVL)

The first of four quins intended to develop computational skills with non-negative rational numbers through applications to business and industry, this guidebook on minimum course content is designed for the student who has acquired basic computational skills with non-negative rational numbers. Overall course goals are specified, a course outline…