Describes three activities in discrete mathematics that involve coloring geometric objects: counting colored regions of overlapping simple closed curves, counting colored triangulations of polygons, and determining the number of colors required to paint the plane so that no two points one inch apart are the same color. (MKR)

Includes lesson plans and worksheets that deal with transformational geometry, specifically reflections. The lesson for grades three to four focuses on angles of incidence and reflection and that for grades five to six involves mirror images. (MKR)

Discusses the value of journal assignments for diagnosing and trouble-shooting misconceptions and for helping with lesson plans. Examples of assignments are included as well as student responses. (AIM)

Presents a five-step lesson to teach young children with disabilities to recognize and decode words by actively involving the children in rhythm and movement. The lesson's objectives are provided as well as step-by-step instructions. The lesson calls for students to engage in guided and individual practice. (CR)

Presents two construction activities that address both state and federal science standards and encourage students to consider career options in mathematics and science. Includes floating concrete and paper bridge activities. (YDS)

Outlines a cyclical process for decision making in math lesson planning: (1) outcomes (curriculum standards and objectives); (2) preskills; (3) instructional delivery; (4) learner engagement; (5) academic and nonacademic needs and supports; (6) accommodations to curricular outcomes; (7) modifications of curriculum outcomes; and (8) evaluation by…

Introduces a science demonstration that illustrates the effects of pressure and gravity on humans using a marshmallow man and a vacuum pump. Demonstrates the same concept with shaving cream, balloons, and boiling water without raising temperature. (YDS)

Discusses collaboration between school librarians and teachers and describes teacher inquiry groups, based on those at Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The focus of the inquiry group is to examine individual lessons and use them as points of entry for understanding teaching methods and improving instructional practices.…

Investigates an interesting application of probability in the world of sports. Considers the role of permutations in the lottery system used by the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States to determine the order in which nonplayoff teams select players from the college ranks. Presents a lesson on this topic in which students work…

Presents an activity, "Lisa's Lemonade Stand," that actively engages students in algebraic thinking as they analyze change by investigating relationships between variables and gain experience describing and representing these relationships graphically. (YDS)

Presents a mathematics activity that teaches binary code. (YDS)

Explains the basics of spherical geometry and describes a series of activities developed for grade 6 middle school students. (YDS)

Describes a lesson plan in which students design scale models of kitchens using proportional reasoning and measuring skills. (YDS)

A model of skills needed by a student to understand a mathematics lesson taught by a good teacher is presented. The model contains a variety of cognitive competencies. Functioning of the model during a two-day lesson sequence is described. (TJH)

Presents four lesson plans designed to teach K-12 students about ceramics and the artists using the medium. Each lesson is centered around one ceramic piece: (1) "Wall Clock," by the Chantilly Porcelain Factory; (2) "Poppy Vase," by Adelaide Robineau; (3) "Laughing Eyes," by Pablo Picasso; and (4) "Ceramic Drum Jar," by Tsayutitsa. (GEA)