Problems and activities are presented for which "I can't do it" or "It can't be done" are the correct responses. Including problems of this type in the curriculum adds a new dimension to students' learning and helps to develop better problem solvers. (Author/MK)

A problem-solving component for the junior high school mathematics curriculum is described. A sample worksheet of routine problems is included, and suggestions for working with nonroutine problems are given. (MNS)

Describes four methods to structure estimation activities that enable students to make connections between their understanding of numbers and extensions of those concepts to estimating. Presents activities that connect estimation with other curricular areas, other mathematical topics, and real-world applications. (MDH)

A new version of a standard old problem is presented. Ways of solving, extending, and continuing the problem that make it applicable to many grade levels are discussed. (MK)

Details of a scope-and-sequence outline for problem solving in the elementary mathematics program of the Philadelphia School District are provided. The emphasis is seen to be on process rather than product. Information about the first 18 of 21 levels in the problem-solving strand is provided. (MP)

An elementary school mathematics program can be structured to allow students to practice computational skills and also become familiar with concepts that need to be mastered in algebra. The activities described begin with students' life experiences, continue through concrete and pictorial experiences, and conclude with abstract activities and…

This report on mathematics education in Soviet elementary schools was prepared by a writer for the Novosti Press Agency in Moscow. It notes that mathematics is taught by subject specialists beginning in grade 4 and provides details on both curriculum and instructional practices. (MNS)

Five reasons why graph work is effective are given, followed by suggestions for making bar, picto-, and line graphs. (MS)

Incorporating problem solving as an integral part of mathematics programs in the classroom is discussed. The teacher's focus is seen as stretching pupil thinking. (MP)

This sample lesson, used with sixth graders, is designed to integrate mathematics learning with the outdoors environment. (MK)

A teacher describes the experiences of her fourth-grade students when using calculators during mathematics class. (MK)

The possibility of improving problem-solving performance and increasing interest in mathematics by incorporating calculators in the mathematics curriculum was investigated. Results indicate that teachers can experiment with calculators in the classroom without fear of endangering computational skills and a thoughtful program integrating…

Ten factors that can lead to a lack of use or misuse of hand-held calculators in elementary school mathematics are reviewed. (MP)

Suggests and discusses several strategies for helping students become better problem solvers. (PK)