Describes how classification came alive in a third grade classroom as children searched for rules or properties defining the five Platonic solids, then constructed a precise definition to classify these solids. (ASK)

This article explores the concept of the center of gravity and the geometry involved in locating the center of gravity of an object. (Contains 15 figures.)

Differentiation provides one method by which teachers can provide appropriate challenges at appropriate levels for all learners in a heterogeneously grouped mathematics classroom, where the range of abilities and interests can be wide. This article considers a heterogeneously grouped high school geometry class where differentiation is practiced.…

The purpose of the present study was to present examples of the utilization of social processes such as teacher questioning and collective argumentation coupled with an appropriate use of a manipulative material to stimulate students' thinking in teaching geometry. We first present theoretical issues concerning the use of manipulatives, teacher…

This article describes a classroom activity in which a solar eclipse is simulated and a mathematical model is developed to explain the data. Students use manipulative devices and graphing calculators to carry out the experiment and then compare their results to those collected in Koolymilka, Australia, during the 2002 eclipse.

Geometry is an important branch of mathematics. Geometry curriculum can be enriched by using different Technologies such as graphing calculators and computers. Logo-based different software packages aim to improve conceptual understanding in geometry. The goals of this paper are i) to present theoretical foundations of any compute software…

The author shares a story of how Luis González, an iron artisan, helped the author build a wooden and iron toy truck. The knowledge required to build the skeleton for the parallelepiped in the construction of the truck is not in the mathematical high school curriculum in Venezuela. Although Luis never received a degree beyond high school,…

The second Indiana Mathematics Contest included tests in Algebra (First Course), Geometry, Algebra (Second Course), and Comprehensive. Test-writing responsibilities were delegated to mathematics and mathematics education faculties at four state universities, with the mathematical content based on course objectives in the state guidelines. Fourteen…

This description of how one high school in Wisconsin is using computer equipment and instructors to further computer knowledge and awareness among students, teachers, and adults of the community, details a two-week computer literacy unit taught to students enrolled in geometry classes. An outline of the unit is provided along with daily lesson…

The first chapter presents representative criticism of the teaching of mathematics, some typical testimonials of its values, and suggestions for certain improvements. Next comes a survey of the educational situation with particular emphasis on the reorganization of secondary mathematics instruction. Chapter 3 presents arguments for the value of…

Describes the characteristics of the five levels of thinking in the hierarchical sequence postulated by the van Hiele theory, as well as several properties associated with each level of thinking. Also discusses some implications of the theory for the planning of geometry instruction in the classroom. (JN)

Presented are instructions for activities in which a calculator is used to investigate algebraic concepts. Also presented are short computer programs involving topics taught in prealgebra and an activity in which a trapezoid is transformed into a circle. (JN)

Presents examples which help students think visually about algebraic operations on vectors and the associated mappings of the plane. The pictures help students actively participate in defining new functions by enabling them to compose simpler known functions. Conversely, functions can be factored into the composition of simple functions. (JN)

Examines the study of transformations which result from cross-sections of a prism. The study involves some model-making, which in turn introduces some new problems of drawing and construction. The material is presented with the practicalities of classroom teaching in mind. (Author/JN)

Clarifies two concepts of gravity--those of a fictitious force and those of how space and time may have geometry. Reviews the position of Newton's theory of gravity in the context of special relativity and considers why gravity (as distinct from electromagnetics) lends itself to Einstein's revolutionary interpretation. (JN)