Discusses the development of problem-oriented mathematics materials for a wide variety of students. Materials include teaching guides, student materials, case studies in mathematical modeling, and project activities. Examples of these materials (including a sports-related activity for students who have not had success in mathematics) are provided.…

The literature on proportional reasoning is reviewed. After methodology is discussed, strategies used to solve proportion problems, variables that influence performance, and training studies are each considered. (MNS)

A real-life problem involving a greenskeeper needing to know the area of golf greens is presented, with solutions using a scale drawing, Maple's methods, and Heron's formula. Methods are checked with a computer and discussed mathematically. Three computer program listings are included. (MNS)

This Texas Tech University computer literacy course designed for preservice elementary and middle school mathematics teachers lacking a technological orientation facilitates their computer introduction through preliminary use of calculators. Course development, philosophy, and course segments are outlined with emphasis on the sequence in which…

This study describes how elementary and secondary California teachers nominated as successful in their microcomputer-based instruction teach science and mathematics, and how their computer usage varies in relation to (1) teacher characteristics (computer and subject matter knowledge, and attitudes toward computers); and (2) district, school, and…

With a standard geoboard, five pegs by five pegs, how many different triangles can be formed using a single rubber band with the pegs serving as vertices? Discusses ways to solve this problem and offers related problems and some pedagogical considerations (particularly for the teaching of geometry and problem solving). (JN)

Hardware for computer-assisted learning is discussed in three papers. Two papers report on projects using computer graphics, one for teaching structural analysis to university students and the other to teach graph concepts at the secondary level. Guidelines for selecting microcomputers focus on analyzing applications and matching them with…

Nine activities are presented in which the calculator can be used to create interest in the study of fractions. Estimation skills are emphasized. (MNS)

The problem-solving skills of logical thinking, critical thinking, visualization, and communication skills are linked with some activities for students. Sample activities with logic, strategies and patterns, breaking fixed notions, open-minded problems, spatial visualization, and communication are described. (MNS)

A study of approximately 600 University of Arkansas remedial algebra students divided into seven control and seven experimental group sections substantially confirms John Saxon's findings that mathematics achievement can be improved by using Saxon's incremental approach to mathematics instruction. (JBM)

A National Assessment of Educational Progress study was conducted on students to assess the dependence of high school mathematics learning on the amount and level of course work as well as other productive factors. Achievement appears to depend on number and level of courses, traditional teaching methods, home environment, and ethnicity.…

The National Institute of Education has supported new research and synthesized existing information to provide teachers and administrators with direction for cognitive instruction. Efforts have been made to identify kinds of thinking and learning conducive to success in particular subjects and to offer useful research-based ideas to teachers. (TE)

The general professional preparation of competent primary-grade teachers, as well as the mathematical component of the teacher education program, are discussed. Overall goals, mathematical content, courses, methodological concerns, and teacher competencies are detailed. (MNS)

This first volume of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 1999 Video Study Technical Report focuses on every aspect of the planning, implementation, processing, analysis, and reporting of the mathematics components of the TIMSS 1999 Video Study. The report is intended to serve as a record of the actions and documentation…

It is generally considered that diagram use aids efficacy of math word problem solving. While understanding diagrams is considered important in both New Zealand and Japanese secondary schools, there is an additional emphasis in New Zealand schools for students to appreciate their use as tools for problem solving and communication. This study…