This study investigated cognitive constructs to be measured by word problems in algebra. One performance-based assessment was administered to 290 high school students. Students' responses were scored by three scoring systems: the correct/incorrect criterion (0/1); a holistic scoring rubric (0-4); and an analytical scoring rubric for measuring…

Block scheduling has grown rapidly in recent years. In North Carolina, 77 schools started block scheduling in 1995-96, bringing the total number of blocked schools in the state to 207. A previous evaluation compared 1995 End-of-Course (EOC) Test scores for block-scheduled (blocked) and nonblocked schools. This report presents results of the…

The concerns of two teachers at a school where computer-integrated instruction was being used in five second-year algebra classes were studied. High levels of personal and management concerns, coupled with low refocusing concerns, were found. Both teachers were judges as mechanical users of computer materials. (MNS)

Reports findings of a research project in Israel that utilized drill exercises on a classroom computer terminal to improve the attitudes and grades of 10th-grade algebra students who had received low grades in mathematics and the natural sciences. Educational aspects, methods, and materials are described. (JD)

Describes a research project that examined the effects of the Computer-Intensive Algebra (CIA) and traditional algebra curricula on students' (N=802) understanding of the function concept. Results indicate that CIA students achieved a better understanding of functions and were better at the components of modeling, interpreting, and translating.…

Discusses the teaching of linear algebra with and without computer software. Considers class format with regard to computer usage, the effect of holding classes in the computer laboratory, homework, computer projects, and student responses. Appendices contain topic tutorials and sample computer projects. (DDR)

Describes several ways to implement the NCTM Standards in technically enhanced classrooms. Presents examples from "Computer-Intensive Algebra." Provides suggestions for implementation. (YP)

Describes three teaching activities for secondary school mathematics classroom: designing a house; guessing the slope function in a calculus course; and solving the six problems of bisymmetric matrices. (YP)

Describes study of junior high school students in Israel that tested the effectiveness of microcomputer-based software designed to shape students' intuitions in the understanding of graphs of quantitative relationships. Retention and integration of microcomputer activities are discussed, and treatments for the experimental and control groups are…

Describes a program to help students succeed in developmental mathematics courses, such as arithmetic, elementary algebra, and intermediate algebra. Provides information on program evaluation and how the program is funded. (YP)

Compares the performance in college algebra for four testing strategy classes: a homework class; a quiz class; a test class; and the control class. Adjusted mean scores in performance and adjusted final attitude were not different among the four strategy groups. The test class had a higher attrition rate than the homework class. (YP)

Investigated are the developments of pupils' use and understanding of algebraic ideas within a LOGO programing context and a non-computational context. The research consists of a 3-year longitudinal case study of 4 pairs of pupils aged 11-16. LOGO experience enhanced the understanding of algebraic ideas. (Author/YP)

Because most schools do not have courses in formal logic, teachers must teach this topic as it comes up naturally through class discussions in algebra, geometry, or general mathematics. This article shows how teachers can capitalize on students' ways of thinking to lead them to a greater understanding of logical relationships. (PK)

Presents three teaching ideas: (1) investigating patterns in the sum of four numbers in a square array, no two from the same column or row; (2) using three-dimensional coordinates to generate models of three tetrahedra; and (3) applying the K=rs area formula for a triangle to other polygons. (MDH)

Demonstrates how graphing calculators can be used by students to solve equations involving absolute value. Allows students to make connections between the algebraic and graphical representations of the problem. (MDH)