States that puzzles are an important tool in helping children engage in the problem-solving process. Claims that children are interested in puzzles because they can be active as observers, problem solvers, and learners, with little or no assistance from adults and others. Defines nine characteristics of good puzzle-making situations. (MOK)

This article examines research to explore whether the use of manipulatives is an effective tool in teaching mathematics concepts and reasoning to middle-grades students.

The purpose of the present study was to present examples of the utilization of social processes such as teacher questioning and collective argumentation coupled with an appropriate use of a manipulative material to stimulate students' thinking in teaching geometry. We first present theoretical issues concerning the use of manipulatives, teacher…

This article describes the results of a year-long exploration of first graders' tool use. It also showcases instructional activities designed to link tool use with quantitative understanding. (Contains 3 figures.)

Balls made of modelling clay (Plasticine[TM]) can be used to generate a classroom discussion about the scientific evidence used to determine the structure of the Earth. This allows pupils to appreciate how evidence is used to support hypotheses and to distinguish fact from hypothesis. It also provides opportunity to correct misconceptions held by…

The name of Zoltan P. Dienes (1916- ) stands with those of Jean Piaget, Jerome Bruner, Edward Begle, and Robert Davis as a legendary figure whose work left a lasting impression on the field of mathematics education. Dienes' name is synonymous with the multibase blocks that he invented for the teaching of place value. Among numerous other things,…

This book contains activities and projects designed to be congruent with three underlying philosophies: the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Curriculum and Evaluation Standards; Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences; and manipulatives, activities, and projects. The introduction contains information about educational reforms; multiple…

Changing the dramatic play area in a child care setting promotes creativity and gives children the chance to experience a place they may never experience in real life. Whenever possible, the children should be involved in the process of changing the area, by moving furniture and exchanging props, as well as brainstorming ideas for changes. The…

Worksheets and instructions are provided for measurement activities using a clinometer and hypsometer. (SD)

A practicum intervention was designed and implemented over an 8-month period for the purpose of enhancing the mathematics-related cognitive and social interaction skills of primary school students in five kindergarten one pre-first, and seven first grade classrooms. Students interacted in group discussions and activities involving interest…

Children in sensorimotor and preoperational stages, as well as at the preschool level, learn fundamental mathematics concepts daily through experiences in the environment. When children enter formal learning environments, they are active, curious, egocentric, and verbal. It is hoped that they will encounter capable teachers who can choose…

Rhythmic gymnastics is an outgrowth of rhythmic and dance gymnastics and promotes good posture, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, along with appreciation of music and movement together. The current status of rhythmic gymnastics and its historical development are briefly discussed. Descriptions are given of rhythmic gymnastic…

An activity is suggested which will give junior high school students practice in estimating and measuring in centimeters and millimeters. Three worksheets are given, one of which is a model for making a metric caliper. (LS)

A device is suggested for constructing triangles with the same area and the same perimeter. A proof is given as is a proof of necessary conditions for a special case. The question of congruence of the triangles is left to the reader. (LS)

This article offers a novel way of having students construct models of the five Platonic solids without the use of glue. Patterns and directions for students are provided. (DT)