Observes the application of probability theory to a game between two players. Shows how basic techniques such as tree diagrams can be used to demonstrate optimum strategies, how the art of bluffing can be quantified, and how this might be applied to a game of poker. (Author/ASK)

Hand-held data collection technology allows for access to real-world data collection--at any other time and almost any place. Is the use of data and its collection desirable to the mathematical learning process? The answer is a resounding yes! Not only can significant mathematical ideas be taught in the process; colleagues are also helped in the…

Presents an activity in which students predict the growth of the population of the United Stated using three different models. (Author/NB)

Presents an activity that utilizes the mathematical models of forest fires and oil spills that were generated (in the first part of this activity, published in the November 1998 issue) by students using probability and cellular automata. (ASK)

Provides a brief synopsis of the development of the National Fire Danger Rating System along with an explanation of how it works and possible ways to use it in a modeling or problem-solving unit in a secondary mathematics classroom. (ASK)

Suggests an alternate way to determine the fractal dimension of bread by means of a dimensionally correct graphical analysis. (WRM)

Presents an activity on linear functions that is designed to help students become familiar with the graphs, equations, and tables of these functions while focusing on issues related to cost, revenue, and profit. (ASK)

The purpose of this article is to describe findings from a study of teachers' social interaction during discussions about students' thinking. The goal of the discussions was for the teachers to interpret their students' thinking as revealed from work on non-routine, thought-revealing mathematical tasks, known as "model-eliciting…

This collection of activities is intended to enhance the teaching of college algebra through the use of modeling. The problems use real data and involve the representation and interpretation of the data. The concepts addressed include rates of change, linear and quadratic regression, and functions. The collection consists of eight problems, four…

Proposes a mathematical way of thinking about how well a rolling object moves. Describes classroom activities that were carried out to measure and evaluate models of rolling objects. In theory, the activities lead immediately to the theory of convex sets. Also includes discussion on Reuleaux rollers. (AIM)

Illustrates the addition, subtraction, and representation of fractions using an area model and a measurement model. Also demonstrates multiplication and division of fractions by employing the area model. (ASK)

Presents an algebra project in which students build a dance club. Reveals how this project motivates students and makes algebra more accessible, dynamic, and relevant to their society. (ASK)

Suggests an elementary school activity and questions to promote five types of mathematical thinking including modeling, logical analysis, inference, optimization, and abstraction. Discusses evaluating activities for mathematical reasoning opportunities. (ASK)

Describes an investigation that leads to one of the significant contributions that sabermetrics--new approaches to gaining information about baseball from its numerical records--has made to our understanding of baseball. (ASK)

Describes the process of mathematical modeling, an extensive teacher's guide, and a student modeling activity to improve the efficiency of soft-drink packaging. (KHR)