Subsequent to commentary that the most feasible locus for curricular change and instructional reform is the individual school, four models for change that implement the NCTM's Curriculum and Evaluation Standards are presented. These models are not offered as panaceas but rather as examples of efforts currently being utilized which may involve…

Presents thematic webbing in which students choose a theme and create major branches by brainstorming and the teacher compiles activities that connect the major branches while covering mathematics topics. Discusses implementation and assessment within the thematic webbing approach. Uses bears as an example. (MKR)

The chair of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Commission responds to a set of questions relative to their standards. (PK)

Presents a class project facilitated by a teacher who used his background in construction to teach students to build a house, during which process many geometric and measurement concepts were introduced or reinforced. Discusses importance of student responsibility and the vital cooperation between construction experts, materials suppliers, and…

Presents strategies for counteracting the following barriers to classroom discussions: student nonparticipation or inattentiveness to others; teacher behaviors of initiating, soliciting, responding, and reacting; argumentative encounters; and inability to communicate mathematically. (MKR)

Discusses various research findings aimed at helping teachers provide a classroom climate which leads students to develop better number sense. Focuses on number and symbol meaning, including number size, place value, and fractions, as well as computation and computational estimation. (MKR)

Provides a rationale and overview of the content of the working draft of the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics, developed by the National Council of Teachers of Matematics. (PK)

Elaborates the final step of Polya's heuristic model, reflecting, to improve students' problem-solving performance. After checking answers for accuracy, the following steps are suggested: (1) test reasonableness and practicality; (2) write a summary paragraph; (3) find other solutions; (4) change the conditions; and (5) extend the problem. (MKR)