Presented are four activities which integrate mathematics and science activities involving problem-solving skills. Topics of activities include derivation of pi (3.14), determining the volume of a bell jar, estimation skills, supplementary exercises using geometric and metric system tables, general laboratory exercises, and supplemental problems.…

Provides rationale for and examples of a game (Mastermind) which fosters the development of a systematic approach to problem solving. Includes a brief summary of an experiment with 50 high school students indicating value of the game. (JN)

Investigates the conditions under which positive interdependence enhances or interferes with individual success and overall group productivity on a computer-assisted problem solving task. Results indicate that both positive goal and resource interdependence increase success in performance of tasks. (KO)

Describes the use of oceanographers' models for introducing students to the concept of mathematical modeling. Outlines a lesson showing the interrelationship of science and mathematics. (RT)

A summer course completed by 30 secondary students with high ability provided team-based, hands-on experience in the invention and design process. The group experiences are examined using three case studies. Implications of the course are analyzed with respect to group problem-solving by students with academic talents. (SW)

Proposes lessons for algebra students using the context of tax calculations to learn about the concepts of slope, split functions, averages, rates, marginal rates, and percents. Students explore ramifications of possible tax revisions. (MDH)

Presents activities in problem solving for levels K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 for each week of the month of March. Activities include open-ended problems and games that engage students' intellect and interest while working individually and cooperatively. (MDH)

Describes problems in teaching problem solving and summarizes research in this area. Presents Guided Design or Guided Decision Making as a problem-solving approach in which groups of students work their way through a model of the problem-solving process as they wrestle with a discipline-specific situation. (PR)

Describes a class activity where individual students ask the teacher "yes and no" questions to find the amount of force the bicep uses to lift a 1 kilogram mass. (PR)

Presents an example of successfully integrating classroom content, library media activities, and the Big6 information problem-solving process in kindergarten through second-grade classrooms. A unit on farm animals is described, in which fifth-grade students assist first graders with location and access and use of information, specifically…

Lists selected resources that help think about problems and issues and how they affect society in the areas of human health, social issues, and environmental issues. Includes Web sites, CD-ROMs and software, videos, books, magazines, and professional resources, with age levels and appropriate disciplines usually indicated. Suggests sample class…

PLATO Learning, Inc., a developer of computer-based instruction, recently released "Math Problem Solving." This product was designed to teach strategies for solving math problems, and consists of 19 problem-solving activities, ranging from basic math to algebra. Each activity includes tools to help find a solution and rule-based coaching to…

This learning activities notebook presents creative, elementary- and secondary-level, standards-based learning activities for teachers by teachers. They include a November-December teaching almanac, mathematics activities, language arts activities, science activities, and social studies activities. A reproducible sheet presents a Santa Sightings…

When asked to reflect on what they learned in college, the twenty-four recent college graduates who were interviewed did not mention specific information from the courses they attended. Instead, their responses fell into one of four categories: critical thinking and problem solving, outside activities, holding a part-time job, and experiences…

It is often claimed that working and talking with partners while carrying out maths activities is beneficial to students' learning and the development of their mathematical understanding. However, observational research has shown that primary school children often do not work productively in group-based classroom activities, with the implication…