Explains the constructivist theory of knowledge and discusses the theory's implications for teaching remedial college students. Analyzes student performance on a college placement test to highlight the differences between how novices and experts process scientific or mathematical materials. Suggests a radical change in introductory algebra…

Suggests that student errors in mathematics be used as motivational devices and starting points for mathematical explorations, involving problem solving and problem posing activities. It is further suggested that errors can foster a deeper and more complete understanding of mathematical content and nature of mathematics itself. (PK)

Argues that the investigation of the life and personality of textbook authors is one approach by which it is possible to analyze school life in the past. The French text author Lacroix is considered. (PK)

Focuses on the language used by elementary mathematics teachers and its relationship to students' understanding of mathematical concepts, as well as their misconceptions. Describes eight situations in which the use of precise, formal mathematical terms could be replaced by informal language, particularly when introducing new concepts. (TW)

Explores relationships among student performance prior to instruction, problems students are assigned and performance after instruction in fourth-grade mathematics. Results indicate that assigning challenging materials may lead to notable gains on test of fourth-grade mathematics. Discusses implication of results for possible modification of…

Presents a geometry exercise which is designed to help students create three-dimensional clay figures, think in three dimensions, and develop vocabulary. Reproducible worksheets are included. (PK)

Presents a program written in USCD Pascal that simulates a system routine. Illustrates standard and user defined boolean and string functions and string procedures. Details the processing operations. (CW)

Argues that "student talk" is an important developmental activity in mathematics. Gives suggestions that will facilitate student talk. (PK)

Describes the problem of non-use of classroom computers in an elementary school mathematics laboratory, and the use of a needs assessment survey and principles of instructional systems design to solve the problem. (19 references) (CLB)

Describes a study in which videodisks were used to teach fractions, decimals, and percents to fifth graders. Student scores on mastery tests are reported, and the reactions of teachers and students to the technology are described. (8 references) (CLB)

Describes seven estimation and counting activities appropriate for an early childhood classroom. Includes suggested methods for going beyond the prescribed activities. (PK)

Describes common beliefs of students about the nature of mathematics and discusses the implications of the student beliefs for problem solving and for teaching. (PK)

Discusses some important components of instruction on fractions in the early childhood years. Argues that fractions should be included in the early childhood curriculum and suggests various activities and materials. (PK)

Explores the problem of combining algebraic terms from the students' point of view and suggests changes in certain traditional teaching practices. (PK)

Presents three reproducible worksheets which contain verbal problem situations in which numerical quantities have been omitted and represented by geometric shapes. The objective of the material is to develop the students' ability to analyze the mathematical structure in verbal problem-solving situations. (PK)