Some opinions on the nature and timing of the basic algebra and basic geometry courses in the public school systems of the state of North Carolina were presented. (RK)

Activities are described that reinforce knowledge of multiplication facts and also give students practice in making generalizations that improve problem-solving skills and provide a foundation for work with fractions. (MNS)

An overall schema of interpretation for programming instructors is given, so that the misconceptions students develop in programming can be determined more readily. Types of language-independent and -dependent bugs, how they can be identified, and how to help students overcome them are addressed. (MNS)

Reports on a survey of computer use administered to 400 elementary mathematics or science teachers in South Carolina. Inquiries included: (1) purposes for which used; (2) brands available; (3) recommended software; (4) effects on students; (5) teacher training; and (6) audio or video packages used. (9 references) (MES)

Looks at the special problems of mathematics instructors in providing remediation for students who are unprepared for college-level work. Considers issues related to assessment, stopouts' course-taking patterns, peer pressures, and remediation. (DMM)

Reports on a study into first grade student's interpretations of the equals sign in different contexts. Argues that varying situations affect students' understanding of such arithmetic concepts, including the social interaction patterns in the classroom during arithmetic instruction. (TW)

Presents a method of viewing the reflective properties of the parabola and ellipse. Reinforces previously studied concepts of mathematics useful for individual or classroom projects. (PK)

Argues that the effective use of calculators is important for employees in many areas. Suggests ways that schools might incorporate calculators into mathematics instruction. (PK)

The cube is the most familiar and in many ways the simplest of the five regular polyhedra, and yet it is surprisingly rich mathematically. This article suggests a number of practical activities for the classroom which involve the cube and related polyhedra. (PK)

Discussed is the difference in the use of verbal explanation, identified by observations of mathematics teaching in first- and fifth-grade classrooms in Japan and the United States. The author suggests we reexamine the role of direct teaching and stress both concrete experiences and verbal explanations at the same time. (MNS)

Students are given a computational rule to follow for the first set of problems and must then discover the rule for the second set. Four worksheets for grades 1-8 are included. (MNS)

Defines arithmetic, harmonic, and weighted harmonic means, and discusses their properties. Describes the application of these properties in problems involving fuel economy estimates and average rates of motion. Gives example problems and solutions. (CW)

Suggests that mathematics curricula, which have traditionally been considered culture-free, have a role to play in fostering understanding among members of different cultures, after a period of cultural upheaval. Anthropological and educational sources are used to suggest points of relevance when a mathematical curriculum is designed for…

Argues that there is a sense of surprise and wonder that can result from looking back at problem solutions and there is a potential for then creating unexpected, even memorable, alternative solutions. Example problems with routine solutions and alternative approaches uncovered while "looking back" at the solution are given. (PK)

Suggests that good number sense is fundamental for success in estimation, approximation, and problem solving. Further, large-number concepts are appropriate for development in upper elementary school, high school, and beyond. Presents examples to enhance a sense of large numbers in middle and high school students. (PK)