Equations or systems of equations can be associated with letters of the alphabet printed in the coordinate plane. Messages can be coded and decoded with a computer or by hand. (SD)

Described is mathematics used by the ancient Babylonians and recorded on tablets which have been dated 3000-2000 B.C., and 700-500 B.C. (SD)

Students were presented with the problem of finding all magic squares of order three. (SD)

Convex polyhedra having square or triangular faces are analyzed algebraically. (SD)

Classroom activities that provide meaningful practice, and at the same time motivate students, are the subject of this article. Several activities appropriate for first-year algebra are discussed; e.g., a prepared matrix of algebraic numbers, cross-factor puzzles, and number tricks. (MP)

The solution of cubic equations is obtained by constructing intersecting conic sections. Details for a particular cubic are given. (MP)

A project for the teaching of mathematical concepts such as tessellation, algebra, and symmetry through artistic form is discussed. (MN)

Chio's method of evaluating determinants by successive reduction of size is explained. (MN)

The author gives a three dimensional analog of Pascal's Triangle as an exercise in heuristic thinking and an introduction to the multinomial theorem. The analog involves finding the number of shortest routes to various rooms in a cubical apartment house. (MN)

A familiar Christmas song described as a second-year algebra problem is presented in "The Twelve Days of Christmas". Five strategies for solving inequalities are discussed in "Solving Algebraic Inequalities". (JT)

An individualized learning system for college algebra was devised and tested. Results indicated that the individualized system was at least as effective as traditional approaches, and superior with respect to student attitudes toward the course. (SD)

In a project designed to enable women to gain mathematical skills needed to expand their career opportunities, a special section of a college algebra course was offered. The section was for women only and was specially organized and staffed. Evaluation indicated the project was successful. (SD)

Three open-phrase games are presented which offer interesting experiences with substitution of numbers. Four open-sentence games are also described, two dealing with the initial stages of finding a partial solution and two requiring students to find the complete solution of an open sentence. (MNS)

Presents several examples of algebraic word problems and demonstrates how spreadsheets are used to solve the problems. Spreadsheet templates are included to illustrate how each problem is solved. (MBR)

Provided is an analysis, using concepts from geometry, algebra, and trigonometry, to explain the apparent loss of area in the rug-cutting puzzle. (MNS)