Reports the findings of a study that examined discourse patterns and the ways in which such patterns affected student learning in a 6th grade mathematics classroom. (KHR)

Describes a rugby problem designed to help students understand the maximum-minimum situation. Presents a series of explorations that locate an optimal place for kicking the ball to maximize the angle at the goalposts. Uses interactive geometry software to construct a model of the situation. Includes a sample student activity. (KHR)

Describes a credit-card-debt activity that allows students to increase their awareness of underlying mathematical concepts relevant to the world of commerce and personal finance through learning geometric and arithmetic sequences. (KHR)

Evaluation of the ability of 77 students who are moderately to profoundly deaf to solve arithmetic word problems found that students who are deaf experienced delays in successful work problem performance. Results support the idea that the delayed language acquisition of this population affects their capacity to solve arithmetic word problems.…

A study examined a method of instruction using video-based problems to help four incarcerated adults with emotional and learning disabilities improve their procedural and problem solving skills. A theoretical model for teaching mathematics guided instruction. Results showed that individuals learned to compute fractions and solve a multi-step,…

Presented is a short mathematical appraisal of some liquid measurements that are encountered by students in everyday life. Discussed are volumes of containers, container construction, and container calibration. (CW)

Discussed are student mathematical background, computing skills, and case studies/field studies as they relate to business studies. A list of basic skills for tertiary business studies is provided including sigma notation, basic algebra, change, and solving equations. (CW)

Solutions for a problem in which the time necessary for an object to fall into the sun from the average distance from the earth to the sun are presented. Both calculus- and noncalculus-based solutions are presented. A sample computer solution is included. (CW)

Presented are two cases of simple geometrical calculations involving the large numbers of atoms that are encountered in two ordinary situations. Included are questions about the spatial implications of the genome and a mole of hydrogen. (CW)

Described is an approach to teaching algebra in a meaningful context by using problem solving to motivate students and increase their retention. Examples of this approach are given. (CW)

Ideas which apply language concepts to the study of algebra are presented. Discussed are algebraic notation, vocabulary, vocalization, and written assignments. The careful use of algebraic language in mathematics classes is emphasized. (CW)

Presented is a science activity which explains the discrepancies found between summer and winter solstice sunrise and sunset times. Used is a mathematical equation which takes into account the earth's changing speed and the tilt of the earth. (KR)

Describes an activity to create squares by placing different numbers of tangram pieces together. Discusses why the combination of six tangram pieces can not create a square. Presents diagrams of the tangram pieces and the squares made. (YP)

Develops an example demonstrating the existence of alternative solutions and the need for the use of personal judgment in mathematics. Uses a problem about ranking national performances at the 1988 Olympic Games as the example. Illustrates several different criteria and the results. (YP)

Discusses the use or misuse of statistics or probability in society. Presented are examples from opinion polling, sports, the 1970 draft lottery, and the law. Lists 18 references. (YP)