Investigated group interaction and mathematical errors of 11th-grade students working individually and in four-person heterogeneous ability groups. Averaging over all types of errors, high-ability students did best in individual conditioning, low-ability students did best in group conditioning, and medium-ability students did equally well in both.…

A card game designed to review and drill the translation of algebraic sentences into spoken sentences and vice versa is presented. The game was originally designed for low-ability ninth-grade algebra students. (MP)

Four teaching ideas are discussed: a "giant" math problem designed to motivate students to use library sources, calculators, computers, and textbooks; a different way of finding fractional equivalents; a task-card project designed to encourage mathematics students to use libraries; and journal writing in a mathematics class. (MP)

Aspects of the instruction of trigonometry in secondary school mathematics are reviewed. Portions of this document cover basic introductions, a student-developed theorem, the cosine rule, inverse functions, and a sample outdoor activity. (MP)

Student weaknesses on problem-solving portions of the NAEP mathematics assessment are discussed using Polya's heuristics as a framework. Recommendations for classroom instruction are discussed. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

The formula used by the telephone company to determine long distance charges is presented and several sample problems are included. (MP)

A model of competition probabilities using past performances of competitors against common opponents is constructed. Application to predicting victories in athletic competitions is also reviewed. (MP)

Two consistent areas of sex differences in mathematics are pointed out, along with the variety of reasons used to explain their causes. Two studies that examined students of both sexes who had revealed high mathematical abilities are discussed, with fear of success of girls highlighted as an important factor. (MP)

The issue of how much emphasis balancing chemical equations should have in an introductory chemistry course is discussed. The current heavy emphasis on finishing such equations is viewed as misplaced. (MP)

A collection of learning activities viewed as challenging and suitable for junior high students in grades 7 and 8 are presented. The questions are designed to suggest other situations and encourage mathematically gifted pupils to develop, practice, and refine analytical thinking skills. (MP)

Data from some geometric exercises administered during the 1977-78 mathematics assessment of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) are analyzed, and suggestions for correcting student deficiencies are presented. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Record-breaking snowfalls are the starting point of a presentation that delves into many aspects of probability and interesting and unusual aspects of viewing independent, random phenomena. (MP)

Mastery learning techniques were improved through mathematics instruction based on a validated learning hierarchy, presenting tasks in a sequence consistent with the requirements of the hierarchy, and requiring learners to demonstrate achievement before being allowed to proceed. (Author/GDC)

This article suggests: ways to teach algebraic properties; a way to prove the Pythagorean Theorem using transformational geometry; a method of packaging and carrying AC-powered calculators; and a method for teaching standard formulas. (MK)

Mnemonic devices to aid in the teaching of perimeter and circumference are suggested. (MK)