A survey study asked Australian experienced teachers during workshops to rate what they believed to be the most difficult aspects of mathematics in grades seven and eight. Problem solving, number sense, and rational numbers were rated as most difficult. The research question provided a catalyst for action in professional development programs. (MDH)

Presented is a series of eight hands-on exercises using Apple II computer graphics to investigate the following characteristics of periodic functions: period, amplitude, horizontal shift, and vertical shift. Detailed teacher instructions and the accompanying computer program are included. (MDH)

Examined are the three regular tessellations and derived semiregular tessellations whose regular polygons meet at common vertices. Included are BASIC computer program listings that explore the various combinations of regular polygons that can form regular or semiregular tessellations. (JJK)

Discusses solutions to real-world linear particle-motion problems using graphing calculators to simulate the motion and traditional analytic methods of calculus. Applications include (1) changing circular or curvilinear motion into linear motion and (2) linear particle accelerators in physics. (MDH)

New analysis of data from the Second International Mathematics Study shows how large a difference really exists between the educational systems of the United States and Japan, as is usually assumed, even after controlling for curriculum. School effectiveness is a more complicated question than merely one of curriculum. (SLD)

Presented are student activities that involve two standard problems from geometry and calculus--the volume of a box and the bank shot on a pool table. Problem solving is emphasized as a method of inquiry and application with descriptions of the results using graphical, numerical, and physical models. (JJK)

Examines didactic interventions and claims their impact on pupil behavior aids the study of cognitive processes. Studies problem solving in teaching mathematics. Examines the functions of tutorial interventions in surface features and instability of representation. Finds tutorial interventions demonstrate a substantial increase in performance…

This review of the introductory instructional substance of functions and graphs analyzes research on the interpretation and construction tasks associated with functions and some of their representations (algebraic, tabular, and graphical). The nature of learning is analyzed in terms of intuitions and misconceptions. (TJH)

Examined middle-school-level integrated mathematics and science education, analyzing the beliefs of teachers in such programs and investigating mathematical and scientific tasks students engaged in during classroom instruction. Results indicated that teachers faced various struggles and only integrated mathematics and science to a limited extent.…

Describes efforts in a secondary mathematics methods course to make discussions of assessment relevant and accessible for prospective teachers, examining preservice teachers' beliefs regarding assessment and detailing steps to help move them from these initial beliefs to ones more consistent with the philosophy expressed in recent reform.…

Examines the relationship between engagement in high school math and science classes, later academic performance, and choice of college major. Quantitative analyses are complemented by case studies of college students who exhibited high or low engagement in high school. (Author)

In this article we describe a mathematical microworld for investigating car motion on a racing course and its use with a group of grade 12 students. The microworld is concerned with the mathematical construction of courses and functions which describe car motion. It is implemented in the computer algebra system, Maple[R], which provides the means…

This article describes the integration of transformational geometry, mathematics, history, art, and cultural studies in a middle-grades mathematics classroom. Its intent is to illustrate how providing students with real-world experiences allows them to see and model mathematics as an integrated whole and make both thoughtful connections between…

This article describes a workshop for parents and middle school students that clarifies an appropriate role for using hand-held technology in learning mathematics. (Contains 3 figures.)

Mathematical humor and insight are creative and pleasurable experiences. Both help students develop a positive attitude toward mathematics and facilitate higher-order thinking. The authors' classroom experience suggests that many middle school students have come to view mathematics as being a superficial and an uncreative activity where they…