Compares observed to expected counts of white, African American, and Hispanic major-league baseball players (n=650) in 1989. Uses chi-square values to determine that racial differences are highly significant for pitcher, catcher, shortstop, and outfielder. Includes appendix with 1993 player counts and seven suggested student activities. (SEW)

The ability to transpose music into any key is assumed by musicians. Such was not always possible. Addresses the role of nth roots in tempering the piano keyboard. (Author/NB)

Presents an activity on measurement and points out the importance of units which, in most cases, are omitted by students. Focuses on measurement in informal settings, indirect measurement, ratio and scales, and surface area to volume ratio. (YDS)

Examines the similarities and fundamental differences between procedural programing and logic programing by comparing LogoWriter and PROLOG. Suggests that PROLOG may be a good first programing language for students to learn. (MVL)

Discusses the mathematical applications of weather including Fahrenheit-Celsius conversions, temperature cycles, the wind-chill factor, and a temperature-humidity index. (MKR)

The Occupational Math Requirements Assessment (OSMA) was created, validated, and administered to three teams of secretaries and three teams of electronics technicians. Secretaries identified 34 job tasks requiring math and using 17 of 63 OSMA operations. Technicians named 45 that used 38 of the 63 operations. Results support teaching adults…

Presented are solutions to variations of a combinatorics problem from a recent International Mathematics Olympiad. In particular, the matrix algebra solution illustrates an interaction among the undergraduate areas of geometry, combinatorics, linear algebra, and group theory. (JJK)

Explains methods for the survey, classification, and mapping of the visual characteristics of landscapes, independently from the subjective aspects of perception. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/MDH)

Presents one simple rule to guide students in determining the number of significant figures in any value in science. (ZWH)

Revisits and discusses the polar bear problem that was published in the March 1997 issue. The problem concerns a riddle: If you walk one mile south, one mile east, and one mile north, and end up in the same spot as you started, what kind of bear would you see? (ASK)

Presents an activity in which students learn how to label graphs in order to make them meaningful. (ASK)

Adresses the question of how children should be educated to help them develop into competent, productive members of modern society. Provides examples of word problems in mathematics education. (ASK)

Describes the use of linear equations having unique solutions and nonunique solutions in the balancing of chemical equations. (MKR)

Considers the fact that employers do not realize the true value of mathematics as a basis for general employment and management. Outlines the benefits mathematicians can bring to an employer whether or not they are ever expected to do sums. (Author/ASK)