Consider that colorful photographs, eye-catching illustrations, and captivating images intended to make textbooks more appealing may actually distract students from the lesson at hand. Or that asking students to simply solve math problems might not be as effective as having them explain the steps of solutions that are already worked out--even some…

A discussion of what constitutes proof is given. Methods of teaching proof in a more intuitive and informal way than is usually done are suggested. (MK)

A collection of significant quotations related to mathematics education since the founding of NCTM in 1920 indicating policies and philosophies that foreshadowed the current Curriculum and Evaluation Standards and the Professional Teaching Standards. (MSD)

This book features a guide to teaching mathematics more effectively. Examining the different ways students acquire mathematical skills, it helps teachers develop flexible teaching methods that suit these varied ways of learning. Common areas of learning difficulty in mathematics and why students fail, ways for teachers to determine gaps in…

Describes the results of part of a study into mathematical problem solving in secondary schools. Concludes that positive results were achieved, in part, as a consequence of the time that was spent in problem-solving lessons which allowed students to practice reading and working with word problems and working on basic material, particularly…

A new version of a standard old problem is presented. Ways of solving, extending, and continuing the problem that make it applicable to many grade levels are discussed. (MK)

The meaning of problem solving and investigations, what investigations are intended to achieve, the teacher's role, and how to introduce investigations in the curriculum are discussed. (MNS)

A one-semester course at the third-year level at York University is described. It tries to legitimize in students' eyes that it makes sense to talk about mathematics as well as do mathematics. Seven course themes are discussed, followed by nine problems used in the course. (MNS)

Computer-enhanced simulation of models permits students to become subjectively involved in interaction with the computer. A method for developing a computer simulation is described, and three examples of computer simulations are given. (JN)

Problems and activities are presented for which "I can't do it" or "It can't be done" are the correct responses. Including problems of this type in the curriculum adds a new dimension to students' learning and helps to develop better problem solvers. (Author/MK)

A programing language called DYNAMO, developed especially for writing simulation models, is promoted. Details of six, self-teaching curriculum packages recently developed for simulation-oriented instruction are provided. (MP)

The article offers a curriculum of direct instruction to teach the process of solving arithmetic word problems to learning disabled students. Students are taught to use a plan, to test relevant hypotheses, and to evaluate their work. (Author/DB)

Historical issues concerning the role of mathematics in the school curriculum are considered, with numerous examples illustrating varying emphases. (MNS)

The relationship between logic and mathematics is examined. Four basic concepts inherent in symbolic logic that are typically included in ninth- and tenth-grade mathematics programs are reviewed. Symbolic logic is advocated for all students who will study algebra and/or geometry. (MP)

An elementary school mathematics program can be structured to allow students to practice computational skills and also become familiar with concepts that need to be mastered in algebra. The activities described begin with students' life experiences, continue through concrete and pictorial experiences, and conclude with abstract activities and…