Increased interest in mathematical problem solving and in the development of problem-solving ability have demanded that mathematics educators give greater attention to problem-solving instruction. A four-step model for solving problems is followed by sets of suggestions for instructional use. (MP)

The problem of finding cube roots when limited to a calculator with only square root capability is discussed. An algorithm is demonstrated and explained which should always produce a good approximation within a few iterations. (MP)

A problem in applied mathematics is presented that is thought fit for a study project by secondary students. The analysis includes topics in beginning algebra, theory of interest, and theory of sums of series of infinite length and looks at trade-offs between price and mileage. (MP)

It is concluded: (1) elementary school students enjoy doing problems, but have trouble thinking them out; (2) students need to work on a variety of types; (3) calculator use can definitely help students become better; and (4) students need experience in group work. Details of the instructional approach used are provided. (MP)

The effect of instruction in addition and subtraction concepts and skills on the processes first-grade pupils use to solve verbal problems was studied. Children represented solutions in individual interviews. Results indicated pupils shifted from a concrete direct modeling approach to a more unified conception that incorporated symbolic…

Problem-solving situations are presented in various settings--a park (levels 1-2), a carnival (levels 2-4), a map (levels 4-6), and a hardware store (levels 7-8). Each page is designed to be reproduced and used for discussion. (MNS)

Too many approaches to mathematics instruction at the elementary level focus only on the production of correct answers rather than on the development of mathematical thinking skills. Author urges encouragement of children's own thought processes. (Author/PGD)

Two uses of computers are outlined. The first discusses and presents a model of a program which is designed to teach students the reasoning involved in solving certain problems. The second looks at the ability of computers to count at high rates of speed, as a start for student explorations. (MP)

The problems many students have on the senior high school mathematics functional literacy test in Florida are discussed. Instructional exercises designed to improve students' reading comprehension of word problems are noted, and prototypes of some of the exercises viewed as more useful are provided. (MP)

Computer-enhanced simulation of models permits students to become subjectively involved in interaction with the computer. A method for developing a computer simulation is described, and three examples of computer simulations are given. (JN)

Evidence is presented that many primary-age children are good at solving word problems. The data comes from three years of observation of about 100 pupils from grades one through three. It is noted that instances of total failure were relatively rare. The individual interview method is recommended to teachers. (MP)

Two separate and simultaneous studies took place in middle socioeconomic schools. A considerable degree of consistency of results in problem-solving performance with and without calculators was found in the two investigations. Calculator-using groups performed significantly higher than non-calculator groups where differences occurred. (MP)

An exploration of a problem called solving quadratic congruences modulo p is detailed and is built around an alternate method of deriving the quadratic formula. Three practical pedagogical values that have been experienced by students and instructor when the material was presented to classes are noted. (MP)

A list of heuristics for elementary school children is provided. Two examples which are viewed to demonstrate the conscientious and creative use of problem-solving strategies by fourth graders are detailed. Suggestions for teachers on how to help pupils develop their problem-solving abilities are included. (MP)

Suggestions for assisting learning disabled (LD) students in decision making are given for determining what information is needed, the correct operation for solving a given problem, and whether an answer is reasonable. (MP)