The concept of pattern recognition lies at the heart of numerous deliberations concerned with new mathematics curricula, because it is strongly linked to improved generalised thinking. However none of these discussions has made the deceptive nature of patterns an object of exploration and understanding. Yet there is evidence showing that pattern…

The pattern, which is a key concept in understanding the mathematical information and concepts, is the basis in comprehending mathematical relations and in understanding mathematical order and logic. The fact that students discover the relationships contained within the patterns and generalize them helps them develop their skills to better…

The present study investigated (a) whether the perceived cognitive load was different when geometry problems with various levels of configuration comprehension were solved and (b) whether eye movements in comprehending geometry problems showed sources of cognitive loads. In the first investigation, three characteristics of geometry configurations…

Initial exposure to algebraic thinking involves the critical leap from working with numbers to thinking with variables. The transition to thinking mathematically using variables has many layers, and for all students an abstraction that is clear in one setting may be opaque in another. Geometric counting and the resulting algebraic patterns provide…

This paper seeks to establish a research framework for an investigation into the extent to which pupils are able to visualise figural cues in multiple ways within the context of pattern generalisation. Enactivism, along with the constructs of knowledge objectification and figural apprehension, are identified as forming an ideal theoretical…

This article draws out many mathematical ideas connected with a familiar game often used by middle school teachers. (Contains 5 figures and 1 table.)

Learning in educational settings emphasizes declarative and procedural knowledge. Studies of expertise, however, point to other crucial components of learning, especially improvements produced by experience in the extraction of information: perceptual learning (PL). We suggest that such improvements characterize both simple sensory and complex…

Four answers to a probability problem involving a perceived coincidence are discussed. (MNS)

The relation between the area of a rectangle and its perimeter is clarified by looking at patterns. Several examples involving rectangles with integral sides are presented. (MNS)

A familiar procedure for generating magic squares is reviewed. A surprising pattern is noted. (MNS)

A familiar Christmas song described as a second-year algebra problem is presented in "The Twelve Days of Christmas". Five strategies for solving inequalities are discussed in "Solving Algebraic Inequalities". (JT)

Learning in educational settings most often emphasizes declarative and procedural knowledge. Studies of expertise, however, point to other, equally important components of learning, especially improvements produced by experience in the extraction of information: "Perceptual learning." Here we describe research that combines principles of…

This activity is designed to help students recognize and extend rectangular patterns and to use patterning to formulate rules for "nth" cases. Three worksheets are included. (MNS)

Curiosities offer an interesting alternative to traditional methods of attacking problems. An illustrative situation is given, with graphical, computer, and analytical methods used to solve the problem. (MNS)

Introduces students to nonperiodic tiling and allows them to construct their own sets of kites and darts through a series of explorations, conjectures, and discoveries. (ASK)