This book contains 40 lessons in problem solving divided into five chapters. Chapter 1 contains several lessons in which solutions are derived through investigation of numerical patterns. Chapter 2 contains lessons in which problem-solving situations are presented in a graphical context. It also includes two lessons in which students construct…

The lesson described first involved tossing a pair of dice and recording on a graph the sum produced on each roll. Pupils examined questions such as which sum occurred most often. The second part involved a graph that indicated which types of sums were most likely to occur. (Author/MP)

The problem involves randomly breaking a stick into three pieces and using the pieces to form a triangle. The probability of getting a triangle is calculated using four different solution methods. Two unique problem interpretations are noted, and one solution method involves a BASIC program. (MP)

The probability of winning the contest was analyzed, with the mathematical solution and a computer simulation given. A flowchart and computer program are both included. (MNS)

Presents two methods of calculating the expected value for a participant on the television game show "The Wheel of Fortune." The first approach involves the use of basic expected-value principles. The second approach uses those principles in addition to infinite geometric series. (MDH)