Develops a division algorithm in terms of familiar manipulations of concrete objects and presents it with a series of questions for diagnosis of students' understanding of the algorithm in terms of the concrete model utilized. Also offers general guidelines for using concrete illustrations to explain algorithms and other mathematical principles.…

termined that students who completed writing assignments on mathematics problems were better problem solvers than students in control groups, supporting the contention that expository writing is an effective, practical, and innovative tool for problem solving. (Sample problems and writing assignments are included.) (DH)

Timing stoplights and trying to determine the best way to allocate cycle time to the two directions is discussed. The simple case and improving the model are both considered. (MNS)

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 social skills training program for deaf adolescents was developed which stresses (1) observable positive social behaviors and (2) social problem-solving thinking skills. Pilot evaluation of the eight-week program with 35 male adolescents revealed that the experimental group scored significantly higher than controls on a test of social skills and…

Described is a laboratory activity to determine five unknown organic compounds. The procedures are designed to help students determine unknowns from a series of tests. (RH)

Described is an experiment that uses nuclear magnetic resonance to study the anomalous paramagnetism of iron(III) chelates. (RH)

Use of a checkbook can hook even the most reluctant mathematics students into learning mathematical and problem-solving skills. (CB)

Presents some rules of thumb for parents and teachers who are developing software libraries. Includes comments on drill and practice software, programs (simulations and adventure games) that teach thinking/problem-solving skills, and programs that foster creativity. Also includes list of resources for selecting software. (JN)

A slight rewording can often transform a routine exercise into a nonroutine one. Three problems (with solutions) from first-year college calculus are presented to illustrate how the technique can be used and how it is applicable to any course. (JN)

Problems set in the real world help students see the relevance of mathematics. Topics that provide sources of real problems are discussed, with examples: mazes, packing, and networks. (MNS)

Among ways suggested for teaching problem solving strategies are to select problem situations appropriate to the learner and to encourage learning from errors. A problem solving process which can be used with young children includes the components of formulation; interpretation; generation; decision making; implementation; evaluation; and…

Presents several examples of algebraic word problems and demonstrates how spreadsheets are used to solve the problems. Spreadsheet templates are included to illustrate how each problem is solved. (MBR)

Addresses the principles and problems associated with the use of significant figures. Explains uncertainty, the meaning of significant figures, the Simple Rule, the Three Rule, and the 1-5 Rule. Also provides examples of the Rules. (ML)

Provided is an analysis, using concepts from geometry, algebra, and trigonometry, to explain the apparent loss of area in the rug-cutting puzzle. (MNS)