The sign-chart method is often used to solve polynomial inequalities involving products or quotients. Presented are examples that extend this method to solve higher-degree polynomial, radical, exponential, logarithmic, absolute-value, and trigonometric inequalities and whose graphic representations lead to intuitive discussions of continuity. (MDH)

Described are the difficulties in translating word sentences between English and Algebra. Two classic sentences that typically produce student errors are presented with explanations that can be shared with the students on overcoming these translation difficulties. (MDH)

Two properties of a wing, namely aspect ratio and wing loading, are described and the matrix approach is used to make certain deductions about particular wing plans. Some examples are provided which show how the matrix transformation of one wing plan into another brings about predictable changes in wing properties. (KR)

Assessed was the level of thinking of 140 students who had been placed in developmental algebra as entering college freshmen. Scores on the Group Assessment of Logical Thinking, Scholastic Aptitude Tests, college placement tests; high school grade point average, and developmental algebra final grade were analyzed. Group characteristics are…

Presented is the problem of determining alternative schedules for major league baseball. Equations of the schedule, conditions on the solutions, and solutions are discussed. (CW)

Presented is the change-point estimation which is a variation on point estimation for a two-sample problem. This variation relies on the elementary properties of the expected value and variance operators, is intuitive and is easily accessible for introductory statistics courses. Data for this exercise may be produced by a BASIC program which is…

Reports that as the number of students required to complete developmental mathematics courses increase, faculty turn to the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC) standards as guidelines for better instructional methods. Describes the necessity for educators to decide how graphing calculators can be used most effectively…

Describes one teacher's effort to change the classroom environment in order to create student-directed exploratory learning. Presents a lesson in which students use the computer program Lesson Graph to study the effects of coefficients on linear equations. (ASK)

A review of six published studies on algebra interventions for students with learning disabilities revealed that successful interventions included instruction on domain-specific knowledge, as well as general problem-solving and self-regulation strategies. Promising practices include sequential introduction of work problems through concrete,…

Presents a modified version of the Wheel of Fortune game for mathematics classrooms that engages students in solving equations by using formal and informal methods. Encourages mental computation and estimation. (ASK)

Presque Isle (Maine) High School has offered a section of all-girls algebra for seven years. The intent was to narrow the gap between 11th-grade boys' and girls' math achievement scores and create a more comfortable learning atmosphere for girls. The achievement score gap has decreased from 72 to 16 points. (MLH)

Data from the High School and Beyond survey for 1,076 students who took algebra before high school and 5,818 who took algebra in high school demonstrated that early access to algebra had an effect beyond increased knowledge, and that it might socialize a student into taking more mathematics. (SLD)

Argues that teachers must recognize and use students' characteristics and behaviors of resiliency to improve mathematics achievement in all student populations, including low achievers. Observes 20 high school mathematics teachers, and discusses their use of six promising instructional strategies. (SR)

Discusses using a computer spreadsheet's graphing capabilities to assist grade 8-12 algebra students to see equations and their solutions in new ways. Describes and illustrates the solution of two equations and an inequality using ClarisWorks, or Microsoft Excel or Works spreadsheet. Discusses "Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School…

This article describes a high school introductory algebra class for 16 developmental mathematics students based on the use of technology in a constructivist environment. Data analysis indicated the importance of technology and of discourse in mathematics teaching and learning. Students became active participants in their own learning and…