This study reports a national survey designed to identify the relative importance of the many factors that may be affecting women's participation in mathematics. Results confirm that numerous factors may affect women's and men's participation in mathematics and suggest areas for intervention to increase women's participation. (MP)

The purposes were to delineate and describe sex differences in mathematics achievement and participation and to investigate the usefulness of the fear of success construct in explaining the differences. Findings highlight the effects of environmental pressures on sex-related differences in mathematics performance and participation. (MP)

A discussion of a contest between the German mathematician Adam Riese and a draftsman involving the construction of as many perpendicular lines as possible in one minute leads to a review of some interesting constructions involving circles. It is suggested teachers challenge their students with the historic contest question. (MP)

The use of a ruler with two parallel Straight edges as a tool in geometric constructions is presented, based on ideas that are fairly standard in high school geometry courses. The constructions are seen as potential challenges that provide opportunities for inventiveness by students. (MP)

Certain properties of lenses provide a physical model of the mathematical concepts of multiplication of integral numbers and of similarity transformations in geometry. Further, they can provide a realistic concrete representation for rules governing multiplication of signed numbers. Suggestions for problems and classroom demonstrations involving…

Activities for calculating experimental and theoretical probabilities are presented. Worksheets designed for duplication for classroom use are provided. Suggestions are given for additional problems that could be generated from the original simulation, and answers to questions on the worksheets are included. The activities simulate parachute…

An easy way to construct a dodecahedron, interesting connections between conic sections in the Cartesian system and limacons in the polar coordinate system, and the use of u-substitutions in simplifying the integration of certain functions are all explored. A BASIC program is provided with the limacon-conic section discussion. (MP)

A mathematical system based on six functions is illustrated. (MP)

Some easy-to-state number properties are suggested as the subjects of proofs that are readily understood and interesting to pupils. (MP)

The following ideas are presented: plans for constructing a calculator bin rack that provides a place for a school to store and charge calculators; a lesson in geometry based on a news article about salt containers; and a very simple approach to the concept of infinite geometric series. (MP)

How the use of calculators can illuminate mathematics and improve the level of problem-solving discussion in classes is presented. (MP)

The creation of "false laws" of mathematics by many pupils as they attempt to rephrase new ideas and make them understandable and useful is discussed. The reasons for these mistakes and some ways teachers can help students adopt correct rules are reviewed. (MP)

The experience of Ramsey Junior High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota in bringing computers into the building is discussed in the hopes that it may help those who are just getting started today. (MP)

Geometric construction problems are recommended as sources of stimulating exercises for mathematics classes. (MP)

The Mathematics Attitude Inventory, designed to measure the attitudes toward mathematics of secondary students, and its accompanying user's manual, are described. The six scales measure perception of mathematics teachers, value of mathematics, self-concept in mathematics, and anxiety toward, enjoyment of, and motivation in mathematics. (MK)