Presents a method for introducing students to broken-line functions with unbroken domains. Concludes that a unit on broken-line functions should enhance students' understanding of the function concept. (ASK)

Examples for determining the equation of a line through two points or a quadratic function that contains three noncollinear points are presented. (MNS)

How the concept of function sheds new light on one of the central tasks of algebra, that of solving equations, is discussed. Many specific examples are presented, and a theoretical basis is included. (MNS)

Describes how students can be guided to find an explicit rule for a pattern from a recursive rule. (YDS)

Discussed is an approach in which algebra and geometry are interwoven in a series of problems that develop one from another. The two main concepts are the algebraic concept of function and the geometric concept of the "family of quadrilaterals." (MNS)

Uses the notion of focusing phenomena to explain how a teacher's actions were connected to her students' interpretations of a linear equation. Conducts interviews and analyzes a high-school classroom that emphasized dependency relationships in real-world situations. Describes how the teacher directed attention away from functional relationships…

Algebra students typically pay little attention to choosing appropriate domains, ranges and scales of axes for graphing functions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of introducing an assignment and employing the graphing calculator to examine and alleviate students' difficulties regarding the selection of appropriate domains,…

Methods of effectively teaching algebraic thinking in elementary schools as well as secondary schools is the topic of the following 19 papers. Papers include: (1) "Transforming Algebra from an Engine of Inequity to an Engine of Mathematical Power by 'Algebrafying' the K-12 Curriculum" (J. Kaput); (2) "Developing a Coherent and…

The ability to use algebra in describing and analyzing real-world situations is becoming a basic skill for all students. The main focus of this book is on patterns, functions, and relationships. Information and ideas on how algebraic thinking can be developed in the years leading to a formal algebra course are included. K-8 teachers are offered a…

Brief articles are included on creating in first-year algebra, making a Moebius hat, and graphing cubics. (MNS)

This book contains an interactive calculator and worksheet program designed to teach the graphing of some of the functions that appear in high school mathematics courses. The graphs of linear, exponential, and logarithmic functions are explored as well as other functions. Activities focus on the graph that appears as a standard part of algebra…

Focuses on the concept of compound functions and an application of this concept using the tax rate schedules from 1999. Presents an activity designed to help students learn how much income goes to pay federal income tax. (KHR)

Included are brief articles discussing chain letters as an example of exponential growth, a box technique for factoring, and integrating the inverse of a function whose integral is known. (MNS)

The purpose of this series is to provide instructional ideas and materials that support implementation of the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards in local settings. This book addresses in a very practical way the content, pedagogy, and pupil assessment dimensions of reshaping school mathematics. Chapters include discussions and activities that…

Presents an approach to explaining a relation, a - b = -(b - a), that is difficult for algebra students to understand. The approach came about as a result of discussions with students in which they provided many novel explanations. (DDR)