Definitions of estimating and approximating are given and areas where these skills are used (such as practical situations, problem solving, and measurement) are discussed. Nine activities which range from second to twelfth-grade level are suggested. (MK)

Brainstorming is suggested as one approach to problem solving. Generating possibilities stimulates creative and independent thinking and can facilitate problem solving in many situations. (MP)

Suggests establishing a regular procedure to allow staff changes in a student newspaper to occur during the school year. (TJ)

Two posters are given containing sets of problems that are designed to stimulate interest in problem solving. Suggestions are given for the use of the posters. (MP)

Presents a problem drawn from real life that addresses finding a way to cross all seven bridges of Konigsberg, Russia. Illustrates a set of simple examples and an instructional approach in order for students to make sense of a seemingly impossible problem. (ASK)

Presents the problem of doubling dough by creating a mixture of dough that doubles in volume every minute when placed in a warm oven. Discusses ways of proposing this question in the classroom. (ASK)

How can a chain with 63 links be cut in 3 places so that you could hand a person any number of links from 1 to 63? Considers variations on the problem and derives a general formula. (TO)

The article offers teachers suggestions on ways to instruct elementary students in the vocabulary of mathematics. It gives examples of math difficulties at the elementary school level, math difficulties related to vocabulary, and math difficulties related to problem solving. (DB)

Interpersonal problem solving (IPS) is often difficult for learning disabled students. Two model IPS interventions, an elementary and a secondary, are described. Key components in both models include alternative and consequential thinking, skills implementation, and a "stop and think" approach to problem resolution. (Author/DB)

This article describes an early childhood self-regulated metacognition program for underachieving gifted students. Teacher and peer modeling of such strategies as think-aloud, behavioral demonstration, and cuing of steps to efficient task accomplishment are outlined, with examples. Benefits of self-regulated learning strategies are reported from…

Discusses the use of a spreadsheet program to vary the parameters in multiloop circuit problems. Enables students to better understand how the elements in a multiloop circuit determine the current by allowing them to see the results of the changes immediately. (JRH)

Presents exercises that analyze the additive property of energy. Concludes that if a body has more than one component of energy depending on the same physical quantity, the body's total energy will be the algebraic sum of the components if a linear relationship exists between the energy components and that physical quantity. (JRH)

This article describes a project which involved inner city elementary grade children with disabilities in writing and performing their own plays. A four-step playwriting process focuses on theme and character development, problem finding, and writing dialogue. The project has led to improved reading skills, attention, memory skills,…

Outlines four solution methods for the Mangoes Problem, discusses how middle school students have approached the problem, suggests generalizations of the problem, and gives an example of a related problem that can be used as an extension to explore the four strategies discussed. (MKR)

Outlines and illustrates the Dartmouth approach to developing a science project. This problem-solving approach, promoted by the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College, helps teachers in guiding students in all phases of project work. (JRH)