Explored the performance of primary school children in Logo programming tasks while they worked in one of three gender pairs (girl, boy, or boy-girl). Found no considerable differences in performance based on gender. Results suggest that what distinguished performance was the application of metastrategic processes--the most effective solutions…

Examines the importance of learning environments as sites for change in science education, describing work with elementary teachers in which researchers are designing learning environments featuring guided inquiry. After explaining how to plan and enact guided inquiry instruction in science, the paper reflects on experiences implementing it in…

Abstract ideas in linear algebra are illustrated at different levels of difficulty through the investigation of the solution to a well-known puzzle. Matrices are used to model the puzzle and the concepts of rank, underdetermined systems, and consistency are employed in the solution to the problem. (MDH)

Argues that teachers should replace art history instruction with efforts to build in children a love for beautiful old objects. Suggests that children should be encouraged to examine family treasures and toys and share their discoveries. Describes several suitable classroom games, including tablesetting history, history to wear, and traditional…

Presents the problem of finding the maximum area of a quadrilateral when three of the four sides are given. Incorporates several parts of the secondary school precalculus curriculum into the solution. Develops the formula to solve the problem. (MDH)

Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)

Investigates the question concerning the maximum number of lines of symmetry possessed by irregular polygons. Gives examples to illustrate and justify the generalization that the number of lines of symmetry equals the largest proper divisor of the number of sides. Suggests related classroom activities. (MDH)

Described is an activity that categorizes a two-digit number as "sneaky" if the continued process of taking the difference of the squares of its digits leads to a difference of zero. Other categorizations are determined by whether the difference process ends in a one-digit number or continues in a loop of numbers. (MDH)

Describes an approach in which students develop a book about themselves that combines photography and word processing skills. The project is based on the whole-language model of teaching literacy that develops reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. (MLF)

Outlines a process-oriented approach to teaching movement and performance to young children. This approach applies a model, which stresses playing and problem solving and which focuses on the creative process rather than creation of a product, to the development of a method of teaching that encourages problem finding and problem solving. (MDM)

Describes the use of generative curriculum in a first-grade class, whereby students pursue their own topics of interest and ways of learning as they engage in meaningful inquiry. Outlines demonstrations that teachers can use to help students develop their own topics. Areas covered include composition, visual arts, notetaking, interviews, surveys,…

Presents three hands-on, discovery geometry lessons based on the use of special pieces called Polydrons by a fifth-grade class to build and investigate special properties of polyhedra and to stimulate students to think geometrically. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Discusses a course which combines Assessment, Investigation, and Mathematical Skills (A.I.M.S.) to originate, arouse, and sustain student interest in mathematics by changing to a more group-centered, democratic style of classroom management and by shifting toward more self-evaluation on the part of the students. (MKR)

Reviews 12 professional books dealing with the following topes: (1) children's literature; (2) literacy development; (3) young writers; (4) discovery science and nature; (5) whole-language resources on butterflies and on dinosaurs; (6) mathematics; (7) engaging children in literacy; (8) early childhood curriculum; (9) the High/Scope Perry…

This paper describes student performance and beliefs regarding fractions resulting from a five-phase approach toward developing mathematical intuition via physical materials. Interviews with students using this approach and with students using a conventional textbook approach indicated significant differences in problem-solving abilities and…