Some materials are examined which try to cultivate skills and concepts such as estimation, approximation, significant digits, place value, and repeating decimals. Also discussed are repercussions and longer term implications on the use of minicalculators. (MP)

Solutions to difficult equations are illustrated with numerical techniques that can be used easily on calculators. Flowcharts and programs for computers and calculators are included. (MP)

Four categories of abuses are discussed: calculations, games and puzzles; mystical button pushing; and checking answers. Useful activities are illustrated for the categories of calculations, patterns, exploration, applications, and new content. (MP)

The possible subtle influence of calculators in the routine evaluation of the arithmetical proficiency of students is noted. The authors show with statistical interpretation the results of a study conducted on a class of 71 first-year professional pharmacy students taking a two-credit hour pharmaceutical calculations course. (LBH)

Presents an activity on solving equations of the form ax+b=Sqr(cx=d) using graphing calculators. (ASK)

Discusses the results of research which examines the perceptions of teachers as they initially engage in instruction using graphing calculators. Data were collected from 261 math and science teachers of grades 6-12. Participant views changed significantly overall in favor of viewing the graphing calculator as a thinking tool to enhance conceptual…

Describes a lesson that uses the graphing calculator to prompt the proof of the mean-value theorem. Students, through guided questioning, proposed the idea of using a difference function to find where a tangent line is parallel to a secant line. Through the use of graphing technology, students conjectured the essential fact that the constructed…

Describes computer or calculator-graphing technology to develop parametric representations which help students connect mathematical topics from algebra and trigonometry through algebraic, graphical, and numerical representations. Computer or calculator graphing utilities instantly transform algebraic expressions into visual and numerical displays…

Describes how the rich examples of geometric images provided by string art can be used to generate some of the mathematics studied by students. Considers string art, graphing calculators, and elementary algebra as appropriate tools for students to use in generating interesting topics of study in mathematics. (DDR)

Presents two examples of using the limitations of calculators to help students understand important mathematical ideas. The first example shows how a simple algebraic calculation can make a recursive model work long enough to perform the job at hand while the second shows how the limitations of a calculator can be used to introduce the need for…

Investigates the introduction of mathematical modeling into the mathematics assessment program of the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Considers structured and open modeling in the pre-university mathematics program. Discusses influences of the use of hand-held technology on mathematical modeling and teacher and assessor beliefs about modeling…

Discusses the Tiles and Sides problem from the December 2000 issue. Indicates that this problem is accessible to students at different grade levels. Presents samples of student responses and their teachers' analysis. (KHR)

Presents a discovery activity that connects mathematics and the world of entertainment. Combines geometric transformations with a calculator's DRAW, MATRIX, and PRGM features to generate visual reinforcement of mathematical concepts. (Author/NB)

Aims for students to use a combination of stochastic ideas to simulate a basketball tournament. Uses the TI-83 calculator in the activity to simulate the binomial distribution. (KHR)

Describes how to teach the solving of multistep problems without recording the intermediate results. Stresses using calculators having memories and necessary functions. Provides activity worksheets. (YP)