Discusses the history of scientific thought in terms of the theories of inertia and absolute space, relativity and gravitation. Describes how Sir Isaac Newton used the work of earlier scholars in his theories and how Albert Einstein used Newton's theories in his. (CW)

Describes an activity for determining how long and when a tree lived by comparing its ring sizes with local precipitation records. Suggests benefits for this type of dendrochronology activity. (TW)

Describes a hierarchical system of problem-solving strategies employed for the solution of a specific kind of problem about speed. Presents the results of 563 high school students tested with problems relating to distance, speed, and time. Provides a rationale for the methods used. (TW)

Reports on a study that was designed to investigate possible effects of inservice instruction (BASIC and LOGO/PILOT) on teachers' mathematical anxiety. Results indicated that teachers enrolled in BASIC programing courses manifested more mathematics anxiety after the course than those who were enrolled in a LOGO/PILOT course. (ML)

Discusses factors related to the success of a mathematics program selected for excellence by criteria that included student performance on standardized math tests and the intensity of involvement in extracurricular activities. Outlines characteristics of the school's rural farm community, administrative and teacher leadership, and the role of…

The needs of above-average junior high school students are discussed. A set of 'daily twisters,' or problems of various types, were collected, and examples are noted. Recommendations on content and pedagogy are described. (MNS)

Presents a theoretical and research foundation for teaching self-communication and metacognition to improve problem-solving skills, memory, and performance. Five steps are provided to guide teachers in implementing a self-communication strategy which can be used in a mathematics class. An extended reference list is included. (JM)

Some specific uses of microcomputers in mathematics instruction are presented. Included are examples for generating data and patterns, checking, practice of various types, developing understanding, comparing results, simulation of experiments, introducing new ideas, solving problems, and extending into new areas. Brief computer programs are given.…

This paper addresses the question of how teachers learn from experience during their pre-service course and early years of teaching. It outlines a theoretical framework that may help us better understand how teachers' professional identities emerge in practice. The framework adapts Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development, and Valsiner's Zone of…

Middle school students consolidate their understanding of integers and rational numbers, increasing their facility with fractions, decimals, and percents and encountering proportionality. This book shows how students can explore these important ideas in such diverse activities as exchanging currency and using area models to develop algorithms for…

We report the findings of an empirical analysis of the performance of a group of middle and high school students before and after an after-school algebra enrichment program using the SimCalc software incorporating classroom networks. The results highlight statistically significant gains in their learning and briefly outline contributing factors of…

Twenty years ago no professional training of university grade existed in this country to prepare teachers of mathematics for secondary schools. At that time the young teacher's sole preparation for his work was the taking of as many academic courses in mathematics as possible, plus, in some instances, a course on the history of education or some…

Estimated supply of secondary biology, chemistry, physics, general science, earth science, and mathematics teachers by state (including American Samoa and Puerto Rico) for 1980-1982 are provided. Data, obtained from state science supervisors, indicates surplus, slight surplus, shortage, critical shortage, or no response in each category for each…

Discusses the importance of computer studies and various problems that will arise in implementing computer science education in Malaysian secondary schools. Reviews French experiences in computer education (emphasizing modeling and simulation as a teaching mode), suggesting that these experiences be examined before embarking on a Malaysian…

The University of Georgia's undergraduate program for secondary school mathematics teachers is described, and graduates' responses to a survey which asked them to rate the usefulness of courses in the program are reported. Suggestions for mathematics teacher education programs are offered. (PP)