Teaching mathematics with games and puzzles goes back in history. Presents an example with the set theory game called Subset Takeaway in which two players can play. Creates a geometric representation of Subset Takeaway starting with a triangle and going to a three-dimensional simplex. Illustrates the winning strategy in the game and features a…

Describes the effect, method, and mathematics of the following magic tricks which can be used in introducing mathematics lessons: the Ninth Card, Fibonacci Revealed, the Case of the Missing Area, I've Got Your Numbers, and the Card That Turns Inside Out. (MKR)

Given is a proof on the classification of surfaces that involves some simple graph theory. It could serve as an introduction to some methods of modern differential topology. (MNS)

Introduces elastic geometry, or topology, into the elementary classroom through the study of connecting the intuitive, visual, and spatial components of storyknifing as well as other everyday and ethnomathematical activities. (ASK)

The problem of finding all topological spaces is considered. Two characterizations are presented whose proofs involve only elementary notions and techniques. The problem is appropriate for students in a beginning topology course after they have been presented with the Embedding Lemma. (DC)

Describes graph theory and topology and its use by a programmer analyst in his job. Contains reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Describes a journal-writing project involving the best route to travel from one place to another and presents some student responses. (MKR)

Discusses flexible polyhedrons, called flexors, that can be bent so that the faces stay rigid while the angles between them seem to change. Presents models representing flexors and directions on how examples can be constructed. (MDH)

Described is a way to use knots to relate a three-dimensional object to a two-dimensional representation of the object. The results are used to produce an algorithm or rule to explain a general case. Included are examples, diagrams, procedures, and explanations. (KR)

This perfect bound teacher's guide presents techniques and activities to teach mathematics using origami paper folding. Part 1 includes a history of origami, mathematics and origami, and careers using mathematics. Parts 2 and 3 introduce paper-folding concepts and teaching techniques and include suggestions for low-budget paper resources. Part 4…

Magic motivates students to talk, and stimulates the affective domain. While watching magic, many people imagine how the effect is accomplished or how they might perform the trick if they were performing. This can be extended into an English lesson by using phrases such as, "If I were a magician, I could..." Total physical response…

Explores graph theory and use of topological indices to predict boiling points. Lists three indices: Wiener Number, Randic Branching Index and Molecular Connectivity, and Molecular Identification numbers. Warns of inadequacies with stereochemistry. (ML)

Describes three components of a seminar in mathematical problem solving for preservice mathematics teachers: (1) a cognitive component that accents particular phases of problem solving; (2) an affective component that allows for observation of skillful problem solvers; and (3) an investigative component that provides for independent study and…

The science of magic is the subject of this book which also examines how to help children experience and describe the world, how to experiment and ask questions about it, and how to make decisions about what is true and what is not. Background information about the relationship between magic and science and the nature of effects and illusions are…