This document is concerned with developing an understanding of problem solving by providing tasks to help students with their problem solving strategies. These tasks were used by Vermont teachers during the pilot years of the High School Mathematics Assessment and were selected by attendees of the June, 1995 Research Scoring meeting. Tasks are…

To help mathematics teachers introduce and reinforce concepts and processes by using relevant problems, several such problems are presented and discussed. (MNS)

College algebra is currently being taught using graphing calculators such as the TI-81. This document presents exploratory and problem solving activities that have resulted from classroom experiences with the TI-81. The activities have been designed to enhance the learning of some standard college algebra topics through the easy access to…

Mathematical models that are used to solve facility location problems are presented. All involve minimizing some distance function. (MNS)

Encourages students to use reasoning and quantitative problem-solving skills to discover the solution to an important practical problem related to absolute-value function and statistical median. (ASK)

A way to schedule tournament tennis matches so time-use is improved is presented. The mathematical application of a linear function is described in some detail. (MNS)

In order to help students more effectively, it is necessary to know how students use and perceive mathematics in out-of-school settings. Discusses some mathematical concepts and processes--such as the concept of function and the process of estimating--which provide evidence of students' mathematical ideas. (ASK)

This paper describes student difficulties in first-year calculus classes and suggests some instructional strategies to address these difficulties. Participants in this study were 200 low socio-economic background freshmen majoring in business in Brazil. Results show that the main difficulties are related to lack of understanding of algebraic…

Presents a problem included on the 1992 National Assessment of Educational Progress in mathematics at grade eight in the content area of algebra and functions. Collects and examines a set of responses to this problem and discusses some examples of strategies that students used to determine the answer to the problem. (ASK)

Discussed is an approach in which algebra and geometry are interwoven in a series of problems that develop one from another. The two main concepts are the algebraic concept of function and the geometric concept of the "family of quadrilaterals." (MNS)

Uses a variation of Hansen's surveyor problem to illustrate how exploring students' assumptions can lead to interesting mathematical insights. Describes methods that utilize self-stick notes and overhead transparencies to adapt computer software to specific classroom needs. (MDH)

An application of functions and their inverses is described--the coding and decoding of messages, or cryptographs. The helpfulness of computers is noted, with two programs listed. (MNS)

Answers and justifications for an interesting problem on the Advanced Placement Calculus AB Examination are discussed. The problem provides diverse ways in which students can gain appreciation and understanding for the subject. (MNS)

Plotting a polynomial over the range of real numbers when its derivative contains complex roots is discussed. The polynomials are graphed by calculating the minimums, maximums, and zeros of the function. (MNS)

This book features a set of problems assembled to reflect the criteria of the mathematics portion of the North Carolina High School Comprehensive Test. The problems are not necessarily suited to timed situations but rather are intended for classroom use by teachers to review high school mathematics and build upon concepts and skills developed in…