Recent research in problem solving has shifted its focus to actual classroom implementation and what is really going on during problem solving when it is used regularly in classroom. This book seeks to stay on top of that trend by approaching diverse aspects of current problem solving research, covering three broad themes. Firstly, it explores the…

Presents mathematical games that involve a problem-solving matrix, multicolored cubes, and three-dimensional dominoes. The work of Alexander MacMahon is highlighted. (MA)

Circuits are described, with discussion on how to help students find the algorithms to solve a variety of problems involving circuits. (MNS)

A possible method of derivation of prescriptions for solving problems, found in Babylonian cuneiform texts, is presented. It is a kind of "geometric algebra" based mainly on one figure and the manipulation of or within various areas and segments. (MNS)

Can the sum of the edges, the surface area, and the volume of a three-dimensional object be numerically equal? Solutions to this challenging problem are discussed. (MNS)

Discusses possible solutions for the problem of determining how many sandwiches were made with specific ingredients that appeared in the March 1998 issue of this journal. (ASK)

Presents a problem that uses the design show and asks students to find a series of moves to take the design from the top-left corner of a piece of paper to the bottom-right corner while remaining in its original orientation. (ASK)

A problem concerning the ratio of the area of a hexagon and a triangle is presented, with the emphasis on possible extensions of the problem. (MNS)

Some traditional and some less conventional approaches using the cotangent to solve the same problem are described. (MNS)

A diffusion simulation is described in which the dispersion of potato beetles in a given problem is traced on hexagonal grids. (MNS)

Presents a problem on counting squares that emphasizes the computation and identification of squares. (ASK)

Shares different students' solutions for a problem entitled Food for Thought from Jay's Dinner, which appeared in the March-April 1998 issue of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School. The problem involves determining the maximum area to be fenced in by 60 feet of fencing. (ASK)

The author observes that the predictor functions determined geometrically by Ranucci (EJ 090 184) can be algebraically derived, and that capable students might enjoy verifying them. Algebraic formulations and derivations are provided. (SD)

This article examines the Pythagorean Theorem from a geometric point of view by suggesting some natural extensions of the theorem. The use of a more general theorem to prove a difficult one is suggested, where possible. The article includes figures and proofs. (Author/MA)

The paper-and-pencil game "Tri" is described. The authors argue that students gain logical skills by playing the game, and that the game lends itself to the introduction of diverse mathematical ideas. (SD)