Presents an easy method for constructing magic squares from three-by-three to general squares. Provides a computer program generating odd-order magic squares. Six references are listed. (YP)

Presents four worksheets designed to introduce middle school students to the use of diagrams to solve real world problems. Describes instructional usage of the worksheets with answers to all worksheets. (YP)

Uses the process of normalization in the Cartesian coordinate system which entails radial projection onto a transect to compare different compositions of minerals. Warns that the ternary diagram should not be used as a framework for calculations. (MVL)

Five geometry experiments with 127 Australian high school students found that guidance provided in a format requiring attention to two sources of information resulted in performance no better than that on conventional problems. A format not requiring split attention resulted in the superiority of worked examples over conventional problems. (SLD)

Summarizes the interview and observation of mathematics teachers on their classroom teaching of problem solving. Discusses the related issues that teachers should consider as they plan and teach problem solving lessons. (YP)

Presented are three cases for intuitive understanding in secondary and college level geometry. Four ways to develop the intuition (physical experience, mutable manipulatives, visualization, and looking back) step are discussed. (YP)

Examines the students' understanding of mathematical structure and the relationship between problem solving and the identification of the structure in 13 word problems. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to assess how subjects organized word problems in their minds. (YP)

Suggests a change in physical chemistry courses to use a slightly more complicated but significantly more useful generalization of the simple freezing point depression law. Lists reasons for the change and presents the treatment of solid-liquid equilibria where solid-solution is allowed. Provides a mathematical treatment. (MVL)

Until age 11 or 12 children haven't reached the stage of abstract reasoning, therefore explanations of math concepts need a concrete, hands-on focus. Several learning activities, rooted in real life situations, are suggested to parents to help children understand math concepts; thereby easing anxiety and promoting enjoyment of math. (IAH)

Provides guidelines for developing and implementing lessons using selections from children's literature as meaningful and appropriate contexts for solving word problems. Selection procedures, materials for constructing the characters, and two sample problems are provided. Lists 15 references. (YP)

A problem-solving approach is developed for secondary or college students to estimate the number of piano tuners in a large city. The answer and method are analyzed for appropriateness. Four similar problems are suggested. (DC)

Investigates using computer spreadsheets in math classes. Describes current spreadsheets on the market. Summarizes how the spreadsheets work and provides information to build a template to find function maximums and minimums. Lists step by step instructions. (MVL)

A fairly traditional precalculus problem is modified to address some common concerns with the teaching of problem solving. Areas of problem solving which are illustrated include: posing the problem; modeling the problem; transforming the data; and examining the solution. (PK)

Computer-Intensive Algebra (CIA) focuses on the use of technology to help develop a rich understanding of fundamental algebraic concepts in real-world settings using computing tools for easy access to numerical, graphical, and symbolic representations of mathematical ideas. (MKR)

Presents cost analyses of building a patio, incorporating manipulatives, pattern building, graphing calculators, matrix applications, and functions. Includes reproducible student worksheet. (MKR)