The process of transition from a novice's state to that of an expert, in the domain of decimals, is described in terms of explicit, intermediate, and transitional rules which are consistent yet erroneous. Data from students in grades 6-9 are included. (MNS)

Presented are four activities (each accompanied by ready-to-duplicate worksheets) dealing with: colors and shapes (grades K-2); using a coordinate grid in map reading (grades 3-4); order pairs of whole numbers (grades 5-6); and locating ordered pairs of rational numbers in the coordinate plane (grades 7-8). (JN)

Describes an approach which helps sixth-grade students become excited about word problems. By using the approach (which involves categorizing a problem before solving it), students master skills in the problem and also develop more positive attitudes toward solving problems. The approach is equally applicable to any intermediate/junior high grade…

Describes a project in which 11- to 13-year-old children used their LOGO programing experience to assist them in investigating a mathematical topic. Students initially drew frieze patterns on graph paper and then wrote LOGO program. Implications of the project for mathematics instruction are noted. (JN)

A mathematics fair sponsored by the 25 schools in Brooklyn Community School District 15, New York, acquainted many students with the excitement of mathematics and let the community see the district's commitment to mathematics. (MLF)

Discussion of microcomputers to provide drill-and-practice in mathematics highlights educational research, early instructional software and its bad reputation, and the current trend toward the production of higher quality software. (MBR)

Research on fractions and decimals is reviewed. Understanding is vital, and thus children need experiences with concrete materials for the various interpretations of rational numbers. (MNS)

To examine the effects of using a microcomputer in mathematics instruction, a nine-month study with 87 fifth-grade students was conducted. The group having drill-and-practice on the microcomputer improved significantly more than a group using an individualized kit, and also gained significantly in computer literacy. (MNS)

Activities for a 10-day unit on probability and statistics are described, with preplanning ideas included. Spinners, dice, cards, wheels, and other materials are used in a variety of games. (MNS)

Some promising topics for research into increasing Native Americans' participation and achievement in mathematics are presented. They focus on raising expectations for performance, devising culturally based programs, and improving pedagogy. (MNS)

The underparticipation and underachievement of Black students in precollege mathematics courses are documented, and some possible contributing factors are discussed. A major research program is called for that would explore the problem in depth, and other suggestions are included. (MNS)

An approach to teaching the exponential function using discrete methods, rather than continuous analysis, is presented. A model for simple geometric growth is explored, with a computer program given. (MNS)

Investigated were the effects of computer-assisted instruction and computer programing instruction on the feelings and knowledge students have about computers. For the 72 high-ability fifth-grade students participating, both treatments improved computer literacy in the affective domain, but only CAI improved it in the cognitive domain. (MNS)

Describes two studies which examined crucial factors in learner support for computer-assisted learning. Douglas investigated the effectiveness of a computerized learner support system with a group of college students, while Lebel used 15- to 17-year-old mathematics students to study the sociostructure (who works with whom and under what social…

How the computer can become an integral part of mathematics learning at the junior high school level is discussed in terms of mathematics processes. The rationale for activities involving programmed processes and examples of them are given. (MNS)