The article includes a discussion of counting and counting strategies. In addition, there are eight problem sets appropriate for use with groups of different age and ability levels. Suggestions are given for finding variations of the problems. (PK)

The author advocates a return to "traditional" elementary algebra content. Several roles for algebra manipulation are identified, including making arithmetic more interesting and understandable and providing facility indispensable for both the technician and the mathematician. (PK)

This study investigated issues affecting the achievement of girls talented in mathematics, focusing on those enrolled in the Advanced Placement program. Data from 1975, when boys were first admitted to all-girl classes, to 1985 are compared. Aptitude increased, achievement remained virtually unchanged, but GPAs for girls dropped. (MNS)

The crucial moment to change the speed setting on a VCR serves as the problem in which linear equations are used. (MNS)

Presents suggestions for making statistical topics interesting and relevant in the classroom. For each of the topics, a general discussion is followed by a suggested teaching sequence with specific activities and examples. (PK)

In spite of current sentiment to the contrary, the wellsprings of mathematics are not utility and relevance, but creativity, imagination, and an appreciation of the beauty of the subject. This has implications for the teaching of mathematics. (PK)

Establishes that the congruence criteria for polygons with more than three sides (such as ASASA for Quadrilaterals) are easily proved within the scope of the standard high school geometry course. Also argues that elegant applications of these criteria are more easily found once these new criteria are known. (PK)

Described is a unit, SAMPLING, which focuses on developing student understanding of probability and data collection for junior high school students. Activities in SAMPLING incorporate physical materials, simple computer simulations, surveys of subjective data, computer simulations of complex situations, and a culminating activity requiring the…

Outlines an instructional approach that can be used to teach students to apply a strategy known as subgoal generation to multistep problems. (PK)

The High School Mathematics Test was administered to 9,582 high school students in Illinois and to 1,700 in Japan. The Japanese sample scored more than two standard deviations above the American sample. Factors associated with mathematics achievement included number of mathematics courses taken and student motivation. (GDC)

This activity for grades 6-12 is designed to promote an increased interest in mathematics and its study. Directions for the game "Math Trivia" are given, with questions ready for cards and additional questions listed. (MNS)

String art on an octahedron provides a viable way to teach and illustrate geometric concepts, while correlating mathematics and art. How to use straws and string, and suggestions for investigating the related geometry, are given. (MNS)

Focuses on relatively recent research findings on the learning of mathematics. Reviews Piagetian theory and notes current trends associated with research on the learning of mathematics. Indicates sources and citations of research efforts in mathematics teaching, instruction, and learning. (ML)

Three schools with differing ways of promoting excellence are described. Background, distinctive features, curriculum features, teacher behaviors in class, and teacher activities out of class are each discussed. (MNS)

Brief articles are included on dropping perpendiculars, working with rational exponents, and finding the square root with base 10 blocks. (MNS)