The goal of this paper is to illustrate different ways that cardsorting activities (or "card stacks") can be implemented in the introductory physics classroom, along with various tips and resources for getting started. My first attempt at developing a card stack came about from simply wanting to try out a fun way to change student…

By describing the motion of a charged particle in the well-known nonuniform field of a current-carrying long straight wire, a variety of teaching/learning opportunities are described: 1) Brief review of a standard problem; 2) Vector analysis; 3) Dimensionless variables; 4) Coupled differential equations; 5) Numerical solutions.

In looking at successful inquiry activities, patterns in pedagogical approach emerge (Meyer et al. 2011). This article discusses one such approach--the design challenge. A design challenge can be defined as an activity in which students are given an explicit task to create a product that meets a defined goal. However, simply asking students to…

Targeted as a highly desired skill for contemporary work and life, problem solving is central to game-based learning research. In this study, middle grade students achieved significant learning gains from gameplay interactions that required solving a science mystery based on microbiology content. Student trace data results indicated that effective…

Fifteen mathematical puzzles and problems are presented. Areas investigated include pentominoes, arithmetic, fractions, and dissections (dissecting) a shape into two pieces that can be fitted together to form a square. Answers for each puzzle and problems are included. (JN)

A problem-solving approach involving systematic experimentation, one of the most-used problem-solving strategies, is advocated since it is useful beyond mathematics problems. Examples of its use are given, with two problems explored and four others noted. (MNS)

Several problems that can be used with calculators are provided. Teaching tips and references are included. (MNS)

Utilizes the problem of determining the number of different ice cream cones and cups that can be made from a choice of 31 flavors to investigate the concepts of combinations and permutations. Provides a set of six related problems with their answers. (MDH)

These student worksheets include activities in counting, place value, estimation, the four operations with whole numbers, number patterns, volume, inequalities, decimal equivalents of fractions, and percents, all to be worked with a calculator. (MP)

Five different ways are outlined in which calculators can be used to develop a student's ability: (1) to solve problems which use real-world data; (2) for solving a greater number of standard word problems; (3) for using different approaches to solve problems; (4) for extending problem situations; and (5) for using the calculator in an…

This teaching guide presents six lessons on using tables to solve problems. For each lesson, the guide gives the purpose, the rationales, materials, and detailed teaching procedures. The six lessons involve making a table, completing a table, using tables to solve problems (lessons 3 and 4), reading tables, and solving problems. Each lesson opens…

Provides domino geometry problems, problems with arithmetic progressions, and magic pentagram sums. (JM)

Recommends a technique designed to foster creative thinking in the business communication classroom. Describes an approach that incorporates several different communication tools, including analytical letter reports, oral presentations, and the use of computer-based technology in an ill-structured problem situation. (KEH)

Problems were developed by third graders involving holiday customs in one of the countries of their ancestors. Eight sample problems are included. (MNS)

These activities involve students in interpreting story problems, drawing their own conclusions, and making guesses. Four worksheets, for levels 1-8, are included, along with teaching suggestions. (MNS)