An application of functions and their inverses is described--the coding and decoding of messages, or cryptographs. The helpfulness of computers is noted, with two programs listed. (MNS)

A general model for solving algebra word problems requiring a linear solution in one variable is described. A step-by-step approach is illustrated, with a worksheet included. (MNS)

Use of the calculator to create a series of iterations to approximate i to some desired degree of accuracy is illustrated with three problems on interest rates. (MNS)

Results from a British study on Strategies and Errors in Secondary Mathematics are considered. Students' views of algebra and their difficulties are summarized, with some suggestions for teachers. (MNS)

Attention is called to the apparent widespread misunderstanding of algebraic notation by secondary school students, and how this may arise from some common approaches to teaching algebra to beginners is discussed. (MNS)

Stressed is a conceptual approach to absolute value, based on the visualization of the graphs of absolute-value equations. An important by-product is predicting a graph on the basis of certain constraints. Four worksheets plus teacher comments are included. (MNS)

Several intuitive proofs for evaluating specific infinite expressions are given. Observations on intuition and errors in mathematics are included. (MNS)

The relative predictive validity of girls' and boys' success in algebra is examined. Eighth-grade students completed the Orleans-Hanna Algebra Prognosis Test. These prognosis test scores were correlated with grades that students subsequently earned in first-year algebra. Algebra grades of girls proved to be the more predictable. (Author/DWH)

Suggested is the presentation of problems for which student teams are to write computer programs which will reveal the results of guesses at the answer by users of the program. Illustrative problems and programs are included. (MNS)

Included in this section are brief articles on an algebraic puzzler, periodic decimal fractions with computers, and the arrow method of teaching logarithms. (MNS)

This study compared the validity of chronological age, a standardized algebra prognosis test, standardized verbal and quantitative scales derived from an achievement test battery, and an objective measure of formal or concrete stages of Piagetian cognitive development for predicting final examination scores and course grades in high school…

Describes a system of computer assisted instruction geared primarily toward high school and university students involved in numerical analysis and optimization. Also describes (in detail) one of its modules to illustrate the general philosophy of the system. This module focuses on the simplex method. (JN)

A first computer lesson in algebra is described, with illustrations of programing by students. Standard algebraic notation with BASIC are discussed, and further activities described. The purpose is to use the computer so that it develops a rational understanding of the mathematical concepts involved. (MNS)

Reviews four commercially produced software packages for high school mathematics. Topic areas include: equations (tutorial); algebra (tutorial, drill and practice); general mathematics (tutorial, drill and practice); and graphing of algebraic equations (arcade games). Program name, hardware needed, format, current price, and source are provided.…

The proof of a number trick is given. (DT)