Duncan Symons and Derek Holton discuss the different types of mathematical reasoning and what each of these might look like in the classroom. By suggesting language that can be used to describe the different methods of reasoning, they hope to provide teachers with the tools they need to better recognise and assess student reasoning.

Computational thinking can provide a basis for problem solving, for making evidence-based decisions, and for learning to code or create programs. Therefore, it is critical that all students across the K-12 continuum--including students in the early grades--have opportunities to begin developing problem solving and computational thinking skills.…

What is the role of patterns in developing algebraic reasoning? This important question deserves thoughtful attention. In response, this article examines some differing views of algebraic reasoning, discusses a controversy regarding patterns, and describes how three types of patterns--in contextual problems, in growing geometric figures, and in…

Most teachers feel confident espousing the benefits of using picture books in English lessons, talking about the importance of using the illustrations to enhance the text, engaging students and fostering a love and appreciation of literature. How many teachers passionately advocate the use of these same picture books in mathematics lessons? This…

The books in this series provide an essential ingredient in the transition from concrete mathematical experience to the symbolic reasoning used in algebra. They aim to guide the student in building and extending manipulative patterns, collecting numerical data, and analyzing the results. The main objective of the activities in this book is for the…

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)

The focus is on the problem-solving strategy of find a pattern, with a problem explored to illustrate how to use the strategy. Other tips concern classroom climate, checking skills, research, and type of problems. (MNS)

Presents responses to the pattern problem that appeared in the November 1998 "Problem Solvers" section of this journal. (ASK)

Presented are 44 examples in which students are invited to guess what pattern of numbers is emerging and to decide whether the pattern will persist. Topics of examples include Pascal's triangle, integers, vertices, Fibonacci numbers, power series, partition functions, and Euler's theorem. The answers to all problems are included. (KR)

A computer program is presented for the billiard ball problem. It can be integrated into a lesson on inductive reasoning and suggests several ways to do so. (MNS)

Patterns resulting from polygonal numbers are explored, with examples of triangular, square, pentagonal, rectangular, and other numbers. Tables and formulas to be developed are included. (MNS)

Presents three investigations related to the game Bulgarian Solitaire. Investigations ask students to find and represent optimal solutions to the problem, to identify cyclical solution patterns for different numbers, and to respond to questions involving the number and nature of the cyclical solutions. An appendix provides answers to questions.…

Described are some ways in which individual states code driver's license numbers. The encoding of month, date of birth, year of birth, sex, and others involving elementary mathematics and the use of an elaborate system of hashing functions in describing the first, middle, and last names are discussed. (KR)

Presents a problem that requires solving a card problem by exploring patterns that will lead to a logical solution. Involves students in developing and analyzing their own algorithms as well as discussing their reasoning with peers. (ASK)