Describes a writing unit which coincided with an algebra unit on solving problems with two variables, in which students wrote down their reasons for choosing a particular multiple choice response, expressed an equation in writing, and wrote a six paragraph description of the solution to a problem. (RS)

Focuses on the place of discrete mathematics in the grades 9-12 mathematics curriculum and discusses how the topic of recursion should be taught. Presents several examples of recursion involving LOGO, spreadsheets, sequences, Pascal's triangle, and the Tower of Hanoi to illustrate its teaching. (MDH)

Illustrates use of rule space as a tool for cognitive analysis of students' mathematical behavior. The rule-space approach is explained and used to classify students according to two methods for solving linear algebraic equations in one unknown and diagnose their knowledge states on this topic. (Author/MDH)

Discusses police officers' use of mathematics when reconstructing an accident scene; and the history of algebra, including al-Khwarizmi's works on the theory of equations, the Rhind Papyrus, a Chinese and an Indian manuscript on systems of linear and quadratic equations, and Diophantus'"syncopated algebra." (10 references) (EK)

Students (n=61) in an experimental course stressing active student involvement and the use of a computer algebra system scored higher than students (n=76) in a traditional college algebra course on final measures of inductive reasoning, visualization, and problem solving while maintaining equivalent manipulation and computation skills. (Author/MLB)

This study compared the effectiveness of a videodisc algebra program with a traditional text-based program with 26 students with learning disabilities in a summer transition-to-college program. The videodisc group significantly outperformed the control group on posttest measures of algebra skill and also earned significantly higher grades in their…

Presents a lesson combining statistics, algebra, and economics in which students create their own mathematical functions and make inferences from those functions. Students learn about the relationships among profit, revenue, and cost. Includes reproducible student group report form. (MKR)

Illustrates various methods to determine the perimeter and area of triangles and polygons formed on the geoboard. Methods utilize algebraic techniques, trigonometry, geometric theorems, and analytic geometry to solve problems and connect a variety of mathematical concepts. (MDH)

Presents methods for teaching two mathematical concepts that utilize visualization. The first illustrates a visual approach to developing the formula for the sum of the terms of an arithmetic sequence. The second develops the relationship between the slopes of perpendicular lines by performing a rotation of the coordinate axes and examining the…

Presents an activity applicable at the beginning of the year to review necessary algebra concepts that are often misunderstood by students. Presents a true/false worksheet made up of examples illustrating common algebra and trigonometry errors made by students. (MDH)

Presents two methods for solving equations. An asymmetric approach works backward from a number by reversing operations performed on a variable. A symmetric approach views the equation as a scale and performs inverse operations on both sides of the balance to solve for the variable. (MDH)

Reviews the history of the concept of function, looks at its relationship with other sciences, and discusses its use in the study of real world situations. Discusses the process of constructing mathematical models of function and emphasizes the importance of the roles of the numerical, graphical, and algebraic representational forms. (MDH)

Much constructive computer and programable calculator activity can be stimulated by BASIC programs that are only three or four lines in length. This article illustrates several ideas with accompanying BASIC program, particularly related to the learning of algebraic concepts, that can be explored with both elementary and secondary mathematics…

Provides Terrapin LOGO programs that use graphic manipulatives--squares, logs, and units--to form the area of a rectangle as a graphical representation for any trinomial of the form: Axx + Bx + C. An important component is the connection of the procedural skill of trinomial factoring to the visualization of the accompanying rectangular displays.…

Using the notion of the difference between a number and its cube as a starting point, this article presents a wide range of mathematical activities at varying levels of sophistication utilizing numerical, intuitive, and graphical approaches. (JJK)