Graphical representations of geometrical objects from high school textbooks are categorized according to the implicit conventions underlying their display. The fact that specific illustrations can lead to students' misconceptions about geometric objects is analyzed in relationship to the principle of parallel projection with implications for the…

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)

Presented is a concrete, realistic way of representing concepts of coordinate geometry. Students represent the coordinates in a living version of a five-by-five square geoboard. Procedures and examples for using this activity are included. (KR)

The integration of science and mathematics in the middle school using the topic of meteorology is discussed. Seven selected activities for this approach are suggested. Lists of materials and resources for use in this teaching approach are appended. (CW)

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.…

Explores the close relationship between pattern formation and traditional geometry using the LOGO programing language with the specific example of joining squares, corner to corner, to form a closed ring. Includes the LOGO programs utilized, as well as color illustrations of the interesting and eye-catching patterns generated. (JJK)

The outlook for increased numbers of minority science and math teachers in Texas is bleak unless radical changes take place in strengthening the requirements for minority students to enroll in and successfully complete an appropriate curriculum of mathematics in public schools. (IAH)

Reports a case study exploring how 2 16-year olds were enabled to capitalize on the potential of errors to stimulate and support mathematical inquiry. Discusses variations within the strategy of using errors to enhance mathematics instruction. Appendix includes list of instructional episodes and error activities. (Contains 56 references.) (MKR)

Discusses the use of computer graphics to introduce the concepts of derivative and tangent line using the iteration of functions, especially linear functions. (MKR)

After a brief historical account of Leonardo Pisano Fibonacci, some basic results concerning the Fibonacci numbers are developed and proved, and entertaining examples are described. Connections are made between the Fibonacci numbers and the Golden Ratio, biological nature, and other combinatorics examples. (MDH)

Described are materials developed to add to existing complex-number units and how they have been used in second-year algebra and precalculus classes. Discussed is software developed, objectives, and classroom materials. Two worksheets are included. A computer program is provided. (CW)

The geometry problems of finding rectangles that have numerically equal areas and perimeters knowing when the plane can be tessellated by congruent regular polygons are connected by the equation: m = 2n/(n-2). Three graphic approaches to the solution of the problem when m and n are integers are discussed. (MDH)

Presented are remarks adapted from keynote addresses made by Iris Carl and Shirley Fry at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) 1991 Annual Meeting. Teachers are issued the challenge of implementing the vision of the NCTM's Standards through innovative teaching methods, reevaluating their profession, and creating a community of…

Critiqued is the way that mathematics texts contribute to the categorization of students into ability levels by gender and social class within the British educational system. Examples of gender bias and social-status bias are cited from texts of the School Mathematics Project series. (MDH)

Describes a study at a secondary school in Glasgow (Scotland) in which teacher-pupil and pupil-pupil pairs of users collaboratively used eight commercial educational software programs, four related to mathematics and four to English language teaching, to determine whether software style affects patterns of interactions. (23 references) (LRW)