Presents a method blending ideas from logic, algebra, and operators to devise discrete functions that yield the same truth values as the truth tables associated with specific logic statements. Introduces mechanisms that encourage students to discover examples of discrete functions, approximately represent logic statements, and provides examples of…

Proposes lessons for algebra students using the context of tax calculations to learn about the concepts of slope, split functions, averages, rates, marginal rates, and percents. Students explore ramifications of possible tax revisions. (MDH)

Presents a calculator method to investigate the effects of varying parameters within mathematical functions in relationship to the accompanying changes in the family of their graphical representations. Suggests that the popularity of this activity makes it equally suitable for high school second-year algebra classes, preservice mathematics…

Presents three hands-on, discovery geometry lessons based on the use of special pieces called Polydrons by a fifth-grade class to build and investigate special properties of polyhedra and to stimulate students to think geometrically. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Presents lesson plans for activities to introduce recursive sequences of polygons: golden triangles, regular pentagons, and pentagrams. The resulting number patterns involve Fibonacci sequences. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Following a short introduction on the rationale and purpose for using algorithmic structures in the teaching of algebra, two topics from elementary algebra are presented in relation to control structures from computer programing, specifically: the multiplication of polynomials defined in terms of nested loops, and the distributive property…

Presented are two ideas to improve instruction. The first celebrates the Christmas birthday of Isaac Newton with an essay assignment related to Newton and a party. The second suggests a more appropriate moment to introduce the technique of completing the square to promote greater flexibility in factoring problems. (MDH)

The effects on college students' (n=110) attitudes of using a microcomputer as a demonstration aid was investigated in an intermediate algebra class. Results suggest a significant treatment effect on students' attitude favoring the microcomputer treatment group. (16 references) (MDH)

Effects of graphic representations of algebraic functions on performance of tasks involving expression transformations were studied for 28 teachers debugging transformed expressions through syntactic manipulations (SYMs) or semantic interpretation (SEI). Those using SEI improved performance using graphs. Some positive effects of graphic feedback…

The first idea concerns a board game similar to tic-tac-toe in which the strategy involves the knowledge of the factorization of quadratic polynomials. The second game uses the calculation of the surface areas of solid figures applying the specific examples of cigar boxes and cylindrical tin cans. (JJK)

Presented is a set of mathematics problems associated with the characteristics, production, and consumption of chicken eggs. Student assignment sheets are included. (CW)

This article explores the multiple representations (verbal, algebraic, graphical, and numerical) that can be used to study the golden ratio. Emphasis is placed on using technology (both calculators and computers) to investigate the algebraic, graphical, and numerical representations. (JAF)

Uses three computer software programs to help students develop algebraic reasoning. Programs include spreadsheets, Logo programming language, and Teasers by Tobbs. (ASK)

Virtually every public issue depends on data, projections, inferences, and systemic thinking. Besides basic mathematics skills, numeracy (quantitative literacy) encompasses estimating tolerances and errors, constructing complex computer simulations, using flowcharts, drawing inferences, and calculating in three dimensions. The narrow…

Describes an action research project conducted in eighth-grade algebra and prealgebra classes. Suggests ways in which students can use their creativity to progress from a simple solution method to a method that produces a generalization and a formula. (AIM)