Presented is the solution to a quadratic expression and a variety of comments regarding this situation and implications for problem-solving instruction. A strategy for approaching similar problem-solving situations is discussed. (CW)

Presented are example activities which are typical of the topic focus and methods of approach evident in the Algebraic Thinking in Children (ATIC) project. This project is aimed at assisting children to ultimately make sense of formal algebra when it is presented. (CW)

Presented is a comparison of two major surveys of the teaching and learning of mathematics conducted by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement. Surveys indicate that performance levels have declined in computational skills and increased in algebra. (Author/CW)

Investigates the impact of faculty and student characteristics on the performance of students in their last developmental mathematics course and in college algebra. Reveals that faculty gender and employment status, and student age, ethnicity, and enrollment status were significantly related to student performance in both developmental mathematics…

Features activities for advanced second-year algebra students in grades 11 and 12. Introduces three random variables and considers an empirical and theoretical probability for each. Uses coins, regular dice, decahedral dice, and calculators. (ASK)

Describes the development of an interactive teaching and learning model involving Desktop Videoconferencing (DVC) and other audiographic facilities for undergraduate mathematics. The experiment demonstrated that it was possible to integrate DVC with computer applications/graphics software to represent algebraic, geometric, and numeric concepts.…

Examines the reliability and validity of using a survey to gauge the percentage of time that algebra teachers use practices that are consistent with professional standards for teaching mathematics. Survey results from 28 teachers suggest that a composite of practices is quite reliable and somewhat valid but that it does not capture instructional…

Introduces mathematical guessing games to teach algebra that motivate students in learning mathematics by stimulating their curiosity and problem-solving abilities. (ASK)

Suggests a few alternative approaches to teaching algebra that allow students to construct and reflect upon meanings for expressions and equations. The three lessons, which require extended discussion and reflection, are "Representing Algebraic Expressions,""Evaluating Algebraic Statements," and "Generating Equations." (WRM)

After years of implementing Interactive Math, many California school districts have bowed to parental pressure and returned to a traditional mathematics curriculum. Reforms are catching on in Texas, Ohio, Arkansas, South Carolina, and New Jersey. The white/minority SAT score gap remains wide. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics 1990…

Describes how a mathematical model can be constructed and used to better understand human impact on natural resources. Uses the source of many current discussions in northern Idaho to present algebraic concepts and show an application of exponential functions. Contains 13 references. (ASK)

Describes a hands-on, guided-learning activity that forges vertical connections among grade levels and relies on physical models in the investigation of algebraic concepts. This lesson helps students discover that a given value can have multiple representations. Includes a sample student activity log. (AIM)

Presents methods for using literature to develop algebraic thinking in an environment that connects algebra to various situations. Activities are based on the book "Anno's Magic Seeds" with additional resources listed. Students express a constant function, exponential function, and a recursive function in their own words as well as…

Describes how various projects helped middle school students build mathematical conclusions through algebraic thinking as they used number patterns and verbal rules to explore the interrelationships of representations. Suggests some topics for projects. (AIM)

Describes an activity using M&M's in an algebra class after instruction in solving equations that actively involves students in identifying the variable, formulating an equation, then solving the equation. (AIM)