Discusses a number of Theo van Doesburg's paintings concerning arithmetic composition. (KHR)

Reports results of a four-year experiment integrating writing into secondary mathematics classrooms. Discusses (1) the development of a pedagogical model for mathematics journal keeping; and (2) the practicalities of implementing journal writing in the curriculum. Includes sample journal entries. (12 references) (MDH)

Observations of classroom practices of 2 teachers teaching the concept of square root in classrooms of 14- to 15-year olds found that the work that really took place in the classroom was often concentrated on different knowledge than that which the teacher wished to convey. (22 references) (MKR)

Discusses suggestions for the learning and teaching of mathematics based on a study examining the mathematics practices of carpet layers. Suggestions are made from the areas of (1) the school mathematics curriculum; (2) the methods used to teach school mathematics; and (3) research in mathematics education. (MDH)

Illustrates the complexities of secondary mathematics teaching and learning in contemporary multilingual classrooms. Shows how and why the language of dilemmas provides a powerful explanatory and analytic tool as well as a source of praxis in mathematics education in a changing educational and political context. Contains 21 references. (ASK)

Describes a study which took place in a grade 9 classroom that consisted of five groups with 3-5 pupils in a group. Pupils were required to calculate the areas of a number of shapes on a geoboard. Concludes that a teacher working with pupils in small groups brings new challenges for mathematics teachers. (Contains 11 references.) (ASK)

The roles of skills and meaning in mathematics are discussed, with concern expressed over the little time spent on developing understanding. Approaches to proportion are described, levels of meaning are proposed, and proportion as a unifying idea for geometry are among the topics discussed. (MNS)

Observations focusing on classroom discourse, uses of graphing calculators, nature of instructional tasks, and instructor-questioning patterns in a high school algebra course found that the teacher modified his teaching strategies and curriculum to accommodate the teaching strategies and topics that arose from the use of the graphing calculator.…

Presents three stories from mathematics history that can be integrated into classroom teaching: (1) the account of how Eratosthenes measured the circumference of the earth to discuss the concept of units in measurement, (2) ideas from Archimedes, Vite, and Descartes to introduce pi, and (3) the discovery of the Cardanic formula as an example of…

Proposes using multiple-entry logs in which students reflect on mathematics problems as a focal point for teacher-student interactions during office hour tutoring. Other benefits cited include increased mathematical confidence and awareness; improved connections involving mathematical concepts; improved teacher-student communications and…

Described is the use of peer teaching, to help students to learn the difference between surface and meaningful learning and to provide feedback to the teacher. The advantages of peer teaching to teachers and students are listed. (KR)

Discusses concerns for mathematics education research on algebra and requestions methods that focus on the Piagetian concept of cognitive obstacles. Suggests the use of computer-based environments to develop the concept of variable and offers research findings indicating that experiences working with variables in LOGO influences student…

Examined the effects of disruptive behavior in mathematics classes. Reported a case study of 31 Greek students considered to be very difficult. Concluded that an alternative approach toward students' concerns--based on human communication, discussion, and negotiation--improved classroom behavior in general. (MDH)