There are many geometrical approaches to the solution of the quadratic equation with real coefficients. In this article it is shown that the monic quadratic equation with complex coefficients can also be solved graphically, by the intersection of two hyperbolas; one hyperbola being derived from the real part of the quadratic equation and one from…

This unique volume surveys recent research on spatial visualization in mathematics in the fields of cognitive psychology and mathematics education. The general topic of spatial skill and mathematics has a long research tradition, but has been gaining attention in recent years, although much of this research happens in disconnected subfields. This…

The interaction of the history of mathematics and mathematics education has long been construed as an esoteric area of inquiry. Much of the research done in this realm has been under the auspices of the history and pedagogy of mathematics group. However there is little systematization or consolidation of the existing literature aimed at…

The null result of the Michelson-Morley experiment and the constancy of the one-way speed of light in the "rest system" are used to formulate a simple problem, to be solved by elementary geometry techniques using a pair of compasses and non-graduated rulers. The solution consists of a drawing allowing a direct visualization of all the fundamental…

Middle and High school students of the twenty-first century possess surprising powers of spatial reasoning. They are assisted by technologies not available to earlier generations. Both of these assertions are demonstrated by students who are challenged with George Polya's classic Five Planes Problem. (Contains 5 figures.)

Computer algebra systems (CAS) have been around for a number of years, as has dynamic geometry. Symbolic geometry software is new. It bears a superficial similarity to dynamic geometry software, but differs in that problems may be set up involving symbolic variables and constants, and measurements are given as symbolic expressions. Mathematical…

Math Sense consists of five books that develop from basic to more advanced math skills. This document contains a placement test used with Math Sense to help students and their teachers decide into which Math Sense book to begin working. The placement test is divided into six parts, each consisting of 10 to 22 problems, and is based on exit skill…

This book contains about 200 problems. It is suggested that it be used by students, teachers or anyone interested in exploring mathematics. In addition to a general discussion on problem solving, there are problems concerned with number theory, algebra, geometry, and combinatorics. (PK)

This collection of activities demonstrates how the study of elementary mathematics can be extended beyond the school and involve teachers and students in investigative, problem-based experiences. The activities include topics in geometry, concept of number, algebra, measurement, graphing, statistics, and probability, and are organized into five…

This learning module provides students with practice in applying geometric operations to vocational agriculture. The module consists of unit objectives, definitions, information, problems to solve, worksheets suitable for various levels of vocational agriculture instruction, and answer keys for the problems and worksheets. This module, which…

This resource book for geometry contains games, tricks, and quick activities for the classroom. Categories of activities include picky puzzlers, plane figures, constructions, vectors, and measurement. Included are eight picky puzzler problems, 19 activities with plane figures, and 25 geometric construction activities. Three vector activities and…

Five sets of activities for students are included in this document. Each is designed for use in secondary school mathematics instruction. Topics include: (1) "5-Con Triangles"; (2) "Striking Sequences"; (3) "Invariants"; (4) "On the Ball," (a geometry lesson); and (5) "Coloring Maps." These topics focus on geometric and statistical concepts. Each…

This is a sample of the final test for students in mathematics at the sixth-grade level in Alberta (Canada) schools. The test contains multiple-choice items and is divided into two sections. Section 1 contains 55 items related to numeration, operations and properties, measurement, geometry graphing, and problem solving. Section 2 consists of five…

This unit is designed to acquaint elementary students with the way a computer operates and the way people communicate with computers. The format of the unit was designed so that the instruction can be provided by the classroom teacher. The lessons are constructed so that, with some teacher guidance, the students can work through them step by step.…

This series of units is designed to help middle, junior high, and high school students use LOGO computer language as a tool to explore concepts in geometry, estimation and problem solving. The format of the unit was designed so that the instruction can be provided by the classroom teacher. The lessons are constructed so that, with some teacher…