An attempt is made to detail the nature of mathematics as perceived by mathematicians. Mathematics is viewed here as both abstract and an experimental science. The typical working mathematician is described as proceeding through problems with an attitude of discovery and examples of such an approach are given. (MP)

A 20-question quiz on the uses of numbers in the real world is presented. (MK)

Describes a problem suitable for grades 1-6 where students utilize a hundreds chart and counters. Students cover any numbers that contain only the digit 1, then cover any numbers containing only the digits 1 and 2, and follow this pattern until they can determine how many digits are needed before the hundreds chart is half covered. (AIM)

Examines student solution strategies to a problem that appeared previously in this journal. (YDS)

Interrelationships between problem solving and number sense are discussed. Suggestions are given on helping children to search for a solution process and to reject unreasonable answers. The teacher's role in developing number-sense skills with problem-solving tasks is also discussed. (MNS)

Shares some explorations of Fibonacci sequences with a special focus on problem-solving and posing processes. (ASK)

Analyzes a didactical sequence for the teaching of addition and subtraction procedures and algorithms. Uses didactical procedures by children in problem solving activities in order to gain a better understanding of the interaction between numbers, numeration, and operations knowledge which are involved in the construction of addition and…

The sequence 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, ..., known as Fibonacci sequence, has a long history and special importance in mathematics. This sequence came about as a solution to the famous rabbits' problem posed by Fibonacci in his landmark book, "Liber abaci" (1202). If the "n"th term of Fibonacci sequence is denoted by [f][subscript n], then it may…

A classic problem involving the "misuse" of mathematical induction is presented. The error in the "proof" is then exposed. The generalization of this problem is presented as a false theorem which should serve to highlight the error. (LS)

Elucidated is the relationship among three threads of mathematical investigations: Kirkman's schoolgirl problems, finite geometries, and Euler's n-square officer problems. (JP)

Provided is an introduction to the properties of continued fractions for the intellectually curious high school student. Among the topics included are (1) Expansion of Rational Numbers into Simple Continued Fractions, (2) Convergents, (3) Continued Fractions and Linear Diophantine Equations of the Type am + bn = c, (4) Continued Fractions and…

The author gives a method for involving students in developing and verifying elementary number theory hypotheses by studying areas and perimeters of primitive pythagorean triangles. (MN)

The focus is on multi-step problems, with suggestions on helping students understand the mathematical relations, decide which computational procedures to use, and identify the sequence in which computations should be performed. An activity to aid understanding of variables is also included. (MNS)