Details are provided of a program on actuarial training developed at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Binghamton through the Department of Mathematical Sciences. An outline of its operation, including a few statistics on students in the program, is included. (MP)

Increased interest in mathematical problem solving and in the development of problem-solving ability have demanded that mathematics educators give greater attention to problem-solving instruction. A four-step model for solving problems is followed by sets of suggestions for instructional use. (MP)

The problem of finding cube roots when limited to a calculator with only square root capability is discussed. An algorithm is demonstrated and explained which should always produce a good approximation within a few iterations. (MP)

A problem in applied mathematics is presented that is thought fit for a study project by secondary students. The analysis includes topics in beginning algebra, theory of interest, and theory of sums of series of infinite length and looks at trade-offs between price and mileage. (MP)

Methods for solving logic puzzles which focus on thought-free procedures that facilitate solution are discussed. Two of the procedures noted pertain to the interior of any submatrix, whereas others span several submatrices. A puzzle is presented at the conclusion as an exercise for practicing the methods promoted. (MP)

It is concluded: (1) elementary school students enjoy doing problems, but have trouble thinking them out; (2) students need to work on a variety of types; (3) calculator use can definitely help students become better; and (4) students need experience in group work. Details of the instructional approach used are provided. (MP)

The demise of mathematics of finance as a subject is discussed and a resurgence is seen as possible, but the traditional instructional presentation is seen as in need of modernization. Financial mathematics is referred to as a beautiful subject when inflation is incorporated, provided that calculators are used in computations. (Author/MP)

Problem-solving situations are presented in various settings--a park (levels 1-2), a carnival (levels 2-4), a map (levels 4-6), and a hardware store (levels 7-8). Each page is designed to be reproduced and used for discussion. (MNS)

Problems involving record-setting events are presented, with comments on both the mathematics skills and the reading skills that are involved with each. (MNS)

Reports on a study that examined which of four major components of word problem solving ability was currently keeping a student from solving word problems. Reviews two recent series of supplementary materials that show promise for helping teachers improve their students' problem interpretation. (FL)

Asserts that the quality circle management technique is an exciting and challenging way to improve staff satisfaction and the quality of service. Defines the quality circle concept, outlines steps school administrators should take to establish quality circles, and warns of possible pitfalls. (Author/PGD)

Too many approaches to mathematics instruction at the elementary level focus only on the production of correct answers rather than on the development of mathematical thinking skills. Author urges encouragement of children's own thought processes. (Author/PGD)

Two uses of computers are outlined. The first discusses and presents a model of a program which is designed to teach students the reasoning involved in solving certain problems. The second looks at the ability of computers to count at high rates of speed, as a start for student explorations. (MP)

Techniques have been described for using celestial spheres as data-generating devices. Descibes a variation, capitalizing on students' interest in activities related to Stonehenge. Following a movie, students determine whether or not astronomical alignments found at Stonehenge and related structures could arise by chance. Local buildings are used.…

The problems many students have on the senior high school mathematics functional literacy test in Florida are discussed. Instructional exercises designed to improve students' reading comprehension of word problems are noted, and prototypes of some of the exercises viewed as more useful are provided. (MP)