Three forms of computer-augmented algebra programs were evaluated at each of two secondary schools with respect to mathematics achievement and attitude. Results of the 4-month program showed lower achievement among the computer group, while results of the 9-month program showed the no-computer group achieved significantly higher. (DT)

A mathematics problem is presented and solved which concerns determining the approximate speed of an automobile involved in an accident. Extensions of the problem are suggested. (DT)

The distinction between mass and weight is discussed. (DT)

California's students are failing to make the grade in mathematics. A recent study released by the RAND Corporation found that California's eighth grade students ranked 43rd on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) mathematics tests. A study conducted by the California State University system found that only 55% of high school…

This paper discusses problems many tenth grade students have when asked to apply a familiar formula in an unfamiliar context: specifically factoring a compound expression. Some of their attempts at solution are presented and discussed in terms of structure sense. (Contains 1 table.) [For complete proceedings, see ED496848.]

We compare the activity of young children using a microworld and a JavaScript relational calculator with the literature on children using traditional calculators. We describe how the children constructed different meanings for the equal sign in each setting. It appears that the nature of the meaning constructed is highly dependent on specificities…

In this paper there is a description of a case in which mathematical argumentation emerge and develop between 7th grade students working in an interactive computerized environment without a deliberate mentoring. The computerized environment has its influence on the characteristics of this argumentation which include mathematical regularities based…

The paper concerns the analysis of the role of artefacts and instruments in approaching calculus by graphic-symbolic calculator at high school level. We focus on an element of the introduction of calculus: the global/local game. We discus the hypothesis that the zoom-controls of calculator support the production of gestures and metaphors that…

As part of a research project on students' understanding of variability in statistics, 272 students, (84 middle school and 188 secondary school, grades 6-12) were surveyed on a series of tasks involving repeated sampling. Students' reasoning on the tasks predominantly fell into three types: additive, proportional, or distributional, depending on…

The equivalence between a statement and its contrapositive is so obvious for an expert that, usually, he does not need any explanation. In this paper, we shall examine the argumentations which students produce in order to justify a statement that, in their opinion, is equivalent to a given statement. We shall observe that the most common…

This study is a part of an ongoing research that attempts to explain the relationship between the teachers' instructional practices and students' learning in the context of functions. In this paper we report a case that shows significant differences between the achievements of two classes irrespective of the students' background training, the…

Designed for principals of elementary and middle schools, this guide addresses the essential elements of a high-quality mathematics program and is intended to be a practical, ongoing resource. The guide begins with an overview of the important issues in mathematics education and a discussion of the basic elements of a mathematics program. It…

Researches in Mathematics Education about proof by contradiction revealed some difficulties of the students but also that this kind of argumentation comes spontaneously in certain situations. In this paper we shall show some processes that might lead the student to produce a proof by contradiction. In particular, we shall point out a deep link…

Measurement can develop in the earliest years from children's experience, and it readily lends itself to real-world application. Focusing on research and practice, NCTM's 2003 Yearbook presents current thinking about the learning and teaching of measurement, including students' understanding, the mathematics of measurement, estimation and…

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…