Finding a fractional number equal to an infinite decimal is solved by two usual methods. Then a third method is discussed that allows students to avoid having to confront the idea of an attained infinity of symbols. (MNS)

Fifteen mathematical puzzles and problems are presented. Areas investigated include pentominoes, arithmetic, fractions, and dissections (dissecting) a shape into two pieces that can be fitted together to form a square. Answers for each puzzle and problems are included. (JN)

The first idea presented is an activity aimed at teaching students to reduce a fraction to lowest terms by looking for the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator. The second idea looks at ways to construct solution problems that are challenging but which do not bog pupils down. (MP)

Using four activity sheets, students learn to identify fractions that are easy to use in estimation situations. (MNS)

Examples of student-developed methods for dividing fractions and dividing and multiplying whole numbers are presented. Both are selected to show mathematical creativity in general mathematics students which would often be overlooked. (MP)

Interesting mathematical questions that require computations involving fractions, percentages, and decimals are presented. The material is designed for students in the middle school grades, but many of the ideas could be used with higher or lower level pupils. (MP)

This guidebook is one in a series of teacher inservice materials. It is an effort to translate the findings of a study of problem-solving instruction in grade 7 into a set of materials that provide teachers with new knowledge about mathematical problem solving, current instructional practices, and recommendations for problem-solving instruction.…

Numerous studies indicate that performance in solving single step multiplicative word problems is influenced by both problem structure and the types of numbers involved in the problem. For example, including numbers less than one often increases the difficulty of a problem. What remains unclear is how problem structure and number type interact in…

Discusses the "Every Pupil Response" (EPR) strategy and its use in teaching basic facts, problem-solving, place value, and fractions. Basically, the technique involves children responding simultaneously to a question by holding up a card, using parts of their bodies, or stick figures. Advantages of EPR are noted. (JN)

The way that fractions are taught to fourth-grade pupils at the Village Community School in New York City is detailed. The approach is thought to make the often frightening symbols of fractions into something that even beginning students find meaningful. Meaning rather than computational technique is emphasized. (MP)

Focusing on sports-oriented themes, activities that present computation and problem-solving examples that involve fractions, decimals, and percent are discussed. Worksheet masters suitable for duplication for classroom use are provided. (MP)

The approaches taken by two elementary school teachers in using computers as tools to stimulate and guide mathematical thinking are described. One had students design a BASIC program for counting; the other used demonstration programs to develop ideas about fractions and decimals. (MNS)

Provides a short list of integral triples for the design of problems employing unit fractions (so solutions will be positive integers). Also presents an algorithm whereby both primary and imprimitive sets of triples can be easily obtained and shows how to extend the algorithm to solve three-variate unit fraction equations. (JN)

This guide contains classroom-tested problems designed to introduce and reinforce mathematical concepts in a quick, "fun" way. Activities emphasize the logic and reasoning skills needed to build a strong foundation in mathematics. The problems are thinking activities and require only upper elementary level mathematics skills. Activities are…

The results of exercises related to fractions on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for 9- and 13-year-olds are reported. This discussion is followed by suggestions on ways to help students be more successful when adding fractions. (MP)