The purpose of mathematics competitions, and in our case the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO), is to promote problem solving skills and strategies, to generate interest and enthusiasm for mathematics and to identify the most talented mathematical minds. SAMO is organised in two divisions--a junior and a senior division--over three rounds.…

Suggest several math activities using the simple technique of tapping a sugar maple tree for sap. Information and activities presented are useful in tapping one or two trees on school property, helping students who tap trees at home, or leading a field trip to a nearby maple sugaring site. (ERB)

Some lesson ideas with magic squares are given. The parametric form of three-by-three and four-by-four squares are each discussed and a worksheet is included on doing and making magic squares. (MNS)

A biography of an eighteenth century black American mathematician is presented. (SD)

A lesson in which a class was directed to solve the square and cube roots of difficult values without using calculators is presented. (MP)

Outlines 10 math activities involving students in measuring, using numbers, sorting, classifying, investigating, and reasoning in the outdoors and helping students develop concepts and determine meaningful relationships between mathematics and the world around them. (ERB)

An activity for practicing basic addition facts is described. (DT)

A new approach to classifying quadrilaterals is presented that tries to classify all possible combinations of shapes and angles by removing the traditional Euclidean viewpoints. The document concludes with a brief look at other types of polygons. (MP)

This collection of jokes, riddles, and limericks is designed to be used to enliven the presentation of mathematical material by use in the classroom, on the bulletin board, or to add levity to test papers. Chapter topics include: (1) The Classics and Other Stories; (2) Jokes; (3) It Figures; (4) Quickies; (5) Riddles; and (6) In Verse. An index…

A computer program which produces a print-out of one million items is given in elementary Fortran. Observations of the print-out help students relate to such a large-number concept. (JT)

How to construct a magic square is explained and a computer program is listed. A proof is presented. (MNS)

Ways of combining mathematics and coding are discussed, with a wide variety of applications given. (DT)

Presents recommendations based on 13 years of work by the Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth. Holds that mathematically talented students are essential to our country's scientific and technological progress and that their abilities must be cultivated to a far greater extent than is permitted by current educational programs. (Author/GC)

The history of probability from ancient times is presented. The relationship between the mathematical and experimental definitions of probability are detailed. (MP)

Outlines various methods for constructing cardboard polyhedra that can be helpful in the learning of geometric concepts and relationships and can also provide the student with a rewarding, inspiring, and colorful output for display. Includes selected illustrations of suitable construction techniques, as well as finished products. (seven…