A set of computer-oriented, supplemental activities is offered which can be used with a course in advanced algebra and trigonometry. The activities involve use of the BASIC programming language; it is assumed that the teacher is familiar with programming in BASIC. Students will learn some BASIC; however, the intent is not to develop proficient…

To illustrate that the writing and utilizing of declarative language programs can be a straightforward task in a logic class, a logic system is defined and a truth-table generator and validator are implemented using PROLOG programing language. Also, using BASIC programing language, an example of a contour map is presented. (JJK)

An algebra class activity of creating computer graphics by connecting a series of ordered number pairs with subsequent investigations involving the transformations of the functional relationship between the elements of those ordered pairs is presented. (JJK)

This paper offers historical, present, and futuristic perspectives on the role of interactive technology in the lives of young children. In the early 1980s, debate tended to center on the question, "Are computers good for young children?" At the time, educational software consisted almost exclusively of animated drill and practice…

Presented is a series of eight hands-on exercises using Apple II computer graphics to investigate the following characteristics of periodic functions: period, amplitude, horizontal shift, and vertical shift. Detailed teacher instructions and the accompanying computer program are included. (MDH)

Presents a series of solution methods to the Eight Queens Problem of placing eight queens on a chess board so that no one queen can capture another. Solution methods progress from empirical approaches to the use of computer algorithms. Geometric transformations are used to find other solutions. (MDH)

The quadratic function can be modeled in real life by a suspension bridge that supports a uniform weight. This activity uses concrete models and computer generated graphs to discover the mathematical model of the shape of the main cable of a suspension bridge. (MDH)

Described are some classroom experiences teaching the concept of symmetry by having students create frieze patterns using the computer software "mosaic." Examples produced by 14-year-old students are presented, and student thinking in developing the friezes is discussed. (MDH)

Presents a series of four steps used in data analysis processes that help students investigate and interpret real world situations. Gives activities that employ computer software to create representative graphs of the data in the analysis process. (MDH)

This article discusses the analysis of a decision-making process faced by contestants on the television game show "The Price is Right". The included analyses of the original and related problems concern pattern searching, inductive reasoning, quadratic functions, and graphing. Computer simulation programs in BASIC and tables of…

Describes two activities to introduce or extend the concept of the natural number e. Students conduct a lottery using either a table of random numbers or a computer simulation to link experimental probability results to the theoretical probability and to the number e. (MDH)

N:4$2 N:4$N Reported are results of a Technical Education Research Centers (TERC) project describing telecommunication interactions between groups of students using the computer software unit "Connectany." Polygons are formed through repetitive "jumps" between points on a circle. Investigation questions and results are shared…

Discussed is the classroom suitability of an open learning computer microworld centered around families of quadratic equations that provides a framework for exploring questions about parabolas to establish the link between the graphical and the algebraic representations of quadratic equations. (JJK)

Presents activities employing LOGO to help create situations that enable students to make meaningful cognitive connections while exploring mathematical relationships. Activities explore the concepts of angles and rotations, progressing from off-line to on-line activities with suggested extensions. (MDH)

Presents four hands-on and computer-based activities to develop measurement skills. Students examine, measure, compare, and contrast the area, perimeter, and volume of geometric figures using concrete materials and computer spreadsheets. (MDH)