Matrix examples that have been used successfully in the classroom to illustrate group concepts are given along with observations made by students in working with them. (MN)

A procedure for solving absolute value inequalities involving a distance interpretation is presented. (MN)

The author shows how changing the restriction context of "Fermat's Last Theorem" alters the statement of impossibility. (MN)

The author uses mathematical models that involve only algebra and a few basic ideas in discrete probability to describe the frequency of conception in large human societies. A number of calculations which can be done by students as exercises are given. (MN)

A system similar to the slope method of graphing a linear equation is described for graphing parabolas. (JT)

This biography of the mathematician Girolamo Cardons (1500-1576) sketches his life and discusses his mathematical works, which were controversial at the time. (SD)

Ploynomials which can be used to calculate the number of ways of coloring hexagonal patterns are presented. (SD)

The article details an instructional procedure (based on the effective instruction research) to enable learning disabled adolescents to master three types of algebraic word problems: relational problems, proportion problems, and problems with two variables and two equations. (Author/DB)

The contributions of the Persian scholar Karaji are described. Perhaps his greatest contributions were his arithmetization of algebra and the geometrical representation of algebraic operations. (MNS)

Four noncommutative groups are given, to be used by students to construct the operation tables and verify that each structure is noncommutative. (MNS)

This paper reports on a study attempting to link teaching practices to the educational achievement of secondary school students learning algebra for the first time. Results are presented. (Author/MT)

Geometric interpretations of algebraic statements are proposed, both to clarify the meaning of algebra and to encourage students to look for spatial or diagrammatic models. Binomial grids for several equations are illustrated. (MNS)

A possible method of derivation of prescriptions for solving problems, found in Babylonian cuneiform texts, is presented. It is a kind of "geometric algebra" based mainly on one figure and the manipulation of or within various areas and segments. (MNS)

Presents a problem, modified from a familiar situation, that would be suitable for high school students to investigate. The problem involves the properties of an array known as the odd triangle, which is made up of the odd counting numbers. (JN)

Presents six mathematical problems (with answers) which focus on: (1) chess moves; (2) patterned numbers; (3) quadratics with rational roots; (4) number puzzles; (5) Euclidean geometry; and (6) Carrollian word puzzles. (JN)