Examines whether verbal problem-solving skills in a group of fourth graders would improve if they were specifically taught how to generate their own diagrams when solving word problems. Classifies textbook word problems into three general types and describes them: (1) tabular; (2) geometric; and (3) contingency diagraming. (YP)

Describes two simulations for practicing arithmetic skills: "Calculators," simulating the management of a store with a calculator, and "MECC 'Sell' Series," simulating profit-making with different levels of difficulty from grade two to eight. Provides hints for classroom use. (YP)

Ways to use data base software to develop conceptual understanding are presented. Discussed are the concepts of a data base, setting up the data, and an assessment of learning with examples. Six references and four journal resources are listed. (YP)

Compares the performance in college algebra for four testing strategy classes: a homework class; a quiz class; a test class; and the control class. Adjusted mean scores in performance and adjusted final attitude were not different among the four strategy groups. The test class had a higher attrition rate than the homework class. (YP)

This material contains 50 mathematical puzzles as a handy form for providing teachers a variety of puzzles. (YP)

Portfolios are the centerpiece of Vermont's statewide assessment program in mathematics. Portfolio scores in the first two years were not reliable enough to permit the reporting of student-level results, but increasing the number of readers or the number of portfolio pieces is not operationally feasible. (SLD)

The adequacy of linking statewide standardized test results to the National Assessment of Educational Progress by using equipercentile equating procedures was investigated using statewide mathematics data from four states. Results suggest that the linkings are not sufficiently trustworthy to make comparisons based on the tails of the distribution.…

A two-level model for factor analysis is defined, and formulas for a scoring algorithm for this model are derived. A simple noniterative method based on decomposition of total sums of the squares and cross-products is discussed and illustrated with simulated data and data from the Second International Mathematics Study. (SLD)

Discusses curriculum changes necessary to use technology in an introductory statistics course, including outline of the curriculum, grading, use of statistical software, relevance to current events, use of writing, objectives, working in teams, data summary, data analysis, and exams. (MKR)

In the first part, both the rationale and the policies for allowing students to use notes during tests in an advanced class are presented. The second part contains suggestions for color-coding a grade book thus promoting efficient information retrieval and easier analyses of students' progress and/or grades. (JJK)

Effects of experimenter-controlled incentives and feedback on the calibration of performance were examined for 85 undergraduates answering reading comprehension and mathematics multiple-choice questions. Results support the hypotheses that incentives affect the calibration of performance and that external incentives can enhance the degree to which…

Responds to the most commonly asked questions and criticisms regarding the Third International Mathematics and Science Study's assessment of students at the end of secondary school. Answers cover differences in age and grade levels, differences in enrollment rates, definitions of the U.S. advanced mathematics population, unbelievable numbers,…

Gender differences in performance on multiple-choice and constructed-response items in mathematics were studied with 3592 11th graders taking a high school graduation examination. Results suggest that gender differences in mathematics may be linked to content and item format, thus supporting the usefulness of a many-faceted Rasch model for…

Presents details on how students perform on particular types of mathematics questions from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Data are from three special studies conducted as part of the NAEP: (1) estimation skills; (2) problem-solving abilities (mathematics in context); and (3) students taking advanced courses in mathematics.…

The temporal stability and intertask consistency of an eighth-grade mathematics performance assessment and how task similarity affects the ability to generalize results of the assessments were studied with results from 101 eighth graders. Results support the suggestion that large-scale performance assessments be used with considerable caution…