Describes the use of an integrated learning system (ILS) in a performance-based diploma program for at-risk students at a Florida high school. Academic and vocational requirements are explained; the role of the teacher is discussed; and a sidebar describes an ILS program for a high school math curriculum in Indiana. (LRW)

Presents two teaching ideas. The first helps students identify and correct their own mistakes. A checklist of common mistakes is filled out by students after quizzes and tests and examined for error patterns. The second develops the formula to determine the payments necessary to pay off a loan over a required period of time. (MDH)

Proposes a novel method of introducing and promoting the topic of geometric sequences through the problem of calculating the number of games necessary to determine the winner of a single elimination tournament in which two, three, or more teams compete at a time. (MDH)

Described are the cultural and philosophical differences between the U.S. and the British education systems, in general, and the school mathematics curriculum, in particular. Included are two recommendations for strategic change within the U.S. mathematics education structure that are perceived as advantageous for the high achieving student. (JJK)

Compares the relationship between local or national control over curricular issues and the content of mathematics instruction in 15 national educational systems. Finds in systems with national control, teachers are more likely to teach the same curriculum and the amount of the mathematics curriculum actually taught is unrelated to student or…

Described are ways in which some teachers have used a software package called "The Geometric Supposer." The development of inquiry skills is stressed. Recommendations for students using the Supposer are provided. (CW)

The use of calculators in helping students to construct their own learning is discussed. Two games which illustrate this concept are presented. The features of a constructivist lesson which uses calculators are listed. (CW)

Uses conic sections, trigonometric functions, and polar coordinates to solve the problem of determining the shape of a baseball outfield fence, given the distances along the foul lines and to straightaway center field. Graphing programs and calculators are utilized to plot different solutions. (MDH)

Examples of composite functions present students with intriguing questions that they can explore using calculators and computers, geometric and algebraic methods, and approximation techniques. Student-centered activities allow students to make discoveries about functions. (MLN)

Presents activities which use graphing calculators to explore parametric equations of spirals, circles, and polygons. (MKR)

Uses a "teaching as problem solving" perspective to examine the components of metacognition underlying the instructional practice of seven experienced and seven beginning secondary-school mathematics teachers. Data analysis of observations, lesson plans, videotapes, and audiotapes of structured interviews suggests that the metacognition of…

Examined the effects of individual characteristics and types of parental involvement on participation in advanced mathematics from grades 8-12. Data from the Longitudinal Study of American Youth indicated that mathematics participants had higher socioeconomic status than dropouts at every grade level. Gender, attitude, and achievement affected…

This article describes a mathematical model that connects mathematics with social studies. Students use mathematics to model independent versus convoyed ship deployments and sinkings to determine if the British should have convoyed their merchant ships during World War I. During the war, the British admiralty opposed sending merchant ships grouped…

This article describes a writing activity that is employed after graded exams are handed back to students. Students are asked to reflect on their performance and to demonstrate understanding of mathematics related to the exam and/or unit of instruction. The article provides examples of student writing, scoring rubrics, and suggestions for…

The Virtual Math Teams Project is exploring how to create, structure, support, and assess an online chat-based collaborative community devoted to mathematics discourse. It is analyzing the forms of group cognition that emerge from the use of shared cognitive tools with specific functionalities. Centered on a case study of a synchronous online…