Microcomputers can promote productive and engaged learning time with special education students, when teachers: combine microcomputer experiences with use of manipulative materials, utilize small cooperative student groups as well as individual microcomputer time, provide direct teaching, monitor performance, and promote generalization through…

A case study of one child who had difficulty adding two- and three-digit numbers is given. Analyzing, diagnosing, and remediating the problem are each considered. (MNS)

The authors argue that mathematics curricula and teachers should set as objectives the development of logical processes, concepts, and language. The teaching materials described in this article have been used to help second, fourth, and seventh graders become skillful in the use of logic. (PK)

Presents a day of activities to encourage students to participate in mathematics. Five contests include poster; model; mathematics puzzle; mathematics problem challenge; and essay. Some student entries and the rules for each contest are described. (MKR)

Presents the use of manipulatives in the three stages of concept learning called concrete, bridging, and symbolic. Examines the three stages in developing the concept of rounding two-digit numbers. (MDH)

Presents activities which use patterns on geoboards or dot paper to develop geometry and measurement concepts. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

The reported practices of 25 elementary school teachers related to teaching mathematics with manipulatives, and reasons offered in support of instructional methodologies, were studied. Results reveal a wide range of interpretations of the term manipulatives and much variation in practice, highlighting a gap between research theory and practice.…

Presents a lesson plan for building and investigating three- dimensional cubes and a representation of a four-dimensional cube, sometimes called a hypercube. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Reports a study that compared the effects of three methods of instruction, use of hands-on activities, hands-on activities in combination with computer-assisted instruction (CAI), or text-based activities, on student achievement and attitude. Results indicated students receiving a combination of hands-on activities with CAI scored significantly…

Describes an exploratory geometry course in which students were challenged to develop their own axiomatic system instead of using a textbook. They developed a Euclidean system and learned to write proofs as a natural consequence of building the system. (13 references) (MKR)

Proposes the use of humor and the personalization of word problems by inserting students' names in the problem statement as methods of gaining students' attention. Illustrates their use in a mixture problem and the Tower of Hanoi problem. (MDH)

Presents an activity to investigate the dimensions of the maximum rectangular area given a fixed perimeter using mathematical modeling and manipulative materials. Students collect and compare data, find patterns, graph data, write functions, and discuss the meaning of the related mathematical model. Provides three reproducible worksheets for the…

Discusses four aspects of mathematics instruction envisioned by the "Professional Teaching Standards": choosing worthwhile mathematical tasks; orchestrating classroom discourse; creating a constructive environment for learning; and analyzing students' understanding and the contribution of teacher practice to student learning. Presents…

This experimental study compared the use of Belcastro rods with the use of traditional methods in teaching addition and subtraction of whole numbers to five blind students. Results showed a significant difference favoring the use of Belcastro rods. (Contains 30 references.) (MKR)

Describes enrichment activities in which students read selections from science trade books and perform hands-on science activities related to the readings. Suggests four readings and related activities involving trees, robots, spiders, and birds. (Contains 13 references.) (MDH)