In the late 1800s and early 1900s, increases in metallurgic technology and better manufacturing methods made naval artillery a more powerful force. Guns could fire more powerful shells that could travel farther and hit a target with much greater accuracy. Torpedoes represented a major threat to even the most powerful of warships, forcing captains…

Mathematical modeling, a key strand in mathematics, engages students in rich, authentic, exciting, and culturally relevant problems and connects abstract mathematics to the surrounding world. In this, article, the authors describe a modeling activity that can be used when teaching linear equations. Modeling problems, in general, are typically high…

Fermi problems are problems which, due to their difficulty, can be satisfactorily solved by being broken down into smaller pieces that are solved separately. In this article, we present different sequences of activities involving Fermi problems that can be carried out in Secondary School classes. The aim of these activities is to discuss…

For many students, making connections between mathematical ideas and the real world is one of the most intriguing and rewarding aspects of the study of mathematics. In the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSI 2010), mathematical modeling is highlighted as a mathematical practice standard for all grades. To engage in mathematical…

Mastering algebra is important for future math and postsecondary success. Educators will find practical recommendations for how to improve algebra instruction in the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) practice guide, "Teaching Strategies for Improving Algebra Knowledge in Middle and High School Students". The methods and examples included in…

What is the relationship between addition and subtraction? How do individuals know whether an algorithm will always work? Can they explain why order matters in subtraction but not in addition, or why it is false to assert that the sum of any two whole numbers is greater than either number? It is organized around two big ideas and supported by…

Presented is an example meant to enable students with a scant mathematical education to grasp the meaning of the limit of the binomial distribution. (Author/TG)

Illustrates how mathematicians work and do mathematical research through the use of a puzzle. Demonstrates how general rules, then theorems develop from special cases. This approach may be used as a research project in high school classrooms or math club settings with the teacher helping to formulate questions, set goals, and avoid becoming…

Geometric interpretations and derivations of the six trigonometric relationships are demonstrated. Selected for discussion are limiting values, geometric verification of trigonometric identities, a one-dimensional illustration of the Pythagorean relationships, and the geometric derivation of infinite-series relationships. (DE)

Undergraduate and graduate students are often confused about several aspects of modeling physical systems. Describes an approach to address these issues using a single physical transport problem that can be analyzed with multiple mathematical models. (DKM)

Suggests an alternate way to determine the fractal dimension of bread by means of a dimensionally correct graphical analysis. (WRM)

A model that can be effectively used to develop the notion of function and provide varied practice by using "real world" examples and concrete objects is covered. The use of Popsicle-sticks is featured, with some suggestions for tasks involving functions with one operation, two operations, and inverse operations covered. (MP)

Presents a model of what it means to understand mathematics followed by examples of exercises designed to develop understanding in specific ways. Presumes that understanding is more likely to develop if it is the direct focus of exercises. (AIM)

Describes a classroom project involving the construction of a holiday mobile. Necessary supplies include a lightweight hanger, construction paper, string, scissors, protractors, compasses, and rulers. Concepts involved in the construction of the project include illustrating a chord, radius, diameter, shapes, metric measuring, circumference, area,…

The problem of finding all topological spaces is considered. Two characterizations are presented whose proofs involve only elementary notions and techniques. The problem is appropriate for students in a beginning topology course after they have been presented with the Embedding Lemma. (DC)