To test the hypothesis that the amount learned from a manipulative, nonverbal oriented unit on electricity would be better predicted by a learning potential assessment procedure than from an IQ based classification (educable mentally retarded status), an EMR group and a regular class non EMR group were both exposed to the unit; untaught EMRs…

The second volume of the report by the Children's Museum of Boston on the development of MATCH Boxes (Materials and Activities for Teachers and Children) contains materials related to the evaluation of these multi-media kits. The MATCH Boxes, designed for use by a teacher with 30 children for two to three weeks, covered 16 different topics, the…

The importance of teaching students to communicate mathematically is discussed. Examined are ways to develop this skill. Activities and open-ended questions are included. The use of physical materials, cooperative groups, listening skills, and writing are stressed. (KR)

Presents two multiple-lesson activities that integrate science and mathematics. Lessons involve hands-on activities for grades 4-5 to develop the notion of average around building a racer; and accurately estimating and measuring crystal growth in grades 8-12. (MDH)

Presents activities employing LOGO to help create situations that enable students to make meaningful cognitive connections while exploring mathematical relationships. Activities explore the concepts of angles and rotations, progressing from off-line to on-line activities with suggested extensions. (MDH)

Procedures to overcome four major factors that cause many middle-school-aged students to lose interest in, and start having trouble with, learning mathematics are discussed. The factors are identified as consisting of more difficult mathematical content, students' orientation toward concrete learning, peer influence, and students' rapid physical…

In general, studies investigating sex differences in mathematics performance have empirically analyzed students' responses from standardized tests. This paper reports a study to extend the investigation of sex differences related to mathematics performance by examining cognitive and motivational factors as well as standardized test scores. Boys…

A component of preservice teacher education is the methodology of teaching mathematics using manipulatives. To enhance prospective teachers' understanding of the use of manipulatives to teach mathematics, interactive video can provide an effective medium to bring the reality of the school classroom to the university classroom. Two interactive…

As the nation pursues the goal of becoming first in the world in science achievement among students, many are advocating an instructional approach that emphasizes activities and learning by doing. Instructional approaches in science education that involve activity and direct experience have become collectively known as hands-on science. This…

This policy analysis report on the Dade County Public Schools was written as part of an Honors Student Mentor Group sponsored by the Institute for Public Policy and Citizenship Studies. The students visited several schools, conducting personal interviews with staff and students, and reviewed statistical sources on a weekly basis under the guidance…

Seymour Papert's vision for early childhood education involves using Logo, a child-friendly computer language. He envisioned a discovery, or self-directed, method of teaching and learning. This article describes three observational studies conducted in classrooms that were attempting to implement Papert's vision. Data from 9 kindergartners and 5…

This report describes a Prescription Learning Company basic mathematics multi-media laboratory at an elementary school in Austin, Texas. Research assumptions that the Prescription Learning approach makes are explored and reviewed. A sample of 12 fifth grade students participated in attitude and achievement results of the laboratory. Twenty-four…

This paper uses inquiry-based learning to introduce primary students to the concepts and terminology found in four introductory engineering courses: Differential Equations, Circuit Analysis, Thermodynamics, and Dynamics. Simple electronic sensors coupled with everyday objects, such as a troll doll, demonstrate and reinforce the physical principles…

This is one of a series of 20 booklets designed for participants in an in-service course for teachers of elementary mathematics. The course, developed by the University of Illinois Arithmetic Project, is designed to be conducted by local school personnel. In addition to these booklets, a course package includes films showing mathematics being…

Proposed is a model for basic preconditions for "the design of effective programs in developmental learning." Such a program should include (1) a continuous psychocognitive diagnosis and assessment of each child; (2) a structured, coherent, sequential approach to content area; (3) a focus on symbolic manipulation and the essentials of a concept;…