Examines a root-approximation method using fixed points as a pedagogical tool for reinforcing and expanding students' conception of functions. (KHR)

Correlates high school chemistry curriculum with high school algebra curriculum and makes the case for an integrated approach to mathematics and science instruction. Focuses on process integration. (DDR)

Derives two sufficient conditions for a finitely generated Lie algebra to have the nilpotent hypercenter. Presents a relatively large class of generalized soluble Lie algebras. Proves that if a finitely generated Lie algebra has a nilpotent maximal subalgebra, the Fitting radical is nilpotent. (DDR)

Argues that the challenge for teachers of algebra in Australia is to find ways of making the structural aspects of algebra accessible to a greater percentage of students. Uses the zero product principle to provide an example of a common student error grounded in the difficulty of understanding the structure of algebra. (DDR)

Underlines the common points in F. Uhlig's approach published in an earlier issue of this journal about the question of proof in linear algebra. Describes some of his ideas in a new light and gives perspective for a further didactical development of Uhlig's first experiments. (Author/KHR)

Analyzes from an historical perspective the extension of the natural-number domain to integers in students' transition from arithmetic to algebra in the context of word problems. Extracts four levels of acceptance of these numbers--subtrahend, relative number, isolated number and formal negative number--from historical texts. The first three…

Presents evidence that there exists much confusion regarding the connection between the algebraic and geometric aspects of slope, scale, and angle. Participants responded to a simple but non-standard task concerning the behavior of slope under a non-homogeneous change of scale. Analysis of the responses reveals two main approaches termed…

Sixth- and seventh-grade students (n=68) with learning disabilities in mathematics received either concrete-to-representational-to-abstract (CRA) or traditional instruction in algebraic transformation equations. Students receiving the CRA instruction outperformed peers receiving traditional instruction on both post-instruction and follow-up tests…

Demonstrates the transformations that are possible to construct a variety of magic squares, including modifications to challenge students from elementary grades through algebra. Presents an example of using magic squares with students who have special needs. (YDS)

Identifies big ideas for the informal study of algebra-related topics in the middle grades including notation, variable, function, and properties of number. Suggests meaningful ways to accomplish them. (YDS)

Describes a lesson plan in which students apply their mathematical intuition to determine win-loss possibilities of teams in a sports league and develop a formula for calculating the magic number for clinching first place. (YDS)

Presents the "Food for Thought" problem and discusses different approaches used by Algebra 1 students to solve the problem. (YDS)

Outlines a lesson on the Fibonacci and Lucas sequences that captures student interest by presenting the opportunity for computation practice, mental mathematics, and proof for algebra students. Discusses an extension for solving simultaneous equations. (YDS)

Describes how student thinking about geometric patterns can be used to develop algebraic reasoning and to make sense of mathematical notation and symbols. (Contains 11 references.) (YDS)

Investigates how mathematics is used in various careers. Students explore number sense and operations, logical reasoning, data analysis, and algebra. (Author/NB)