Three mathematics education researchers discuss their findings on the use of diagrams in math instruction for English language learners. The authors show how diagrams can help students who are English learners better develop mathematical thinking and communicate their mathematical understanding.

In some math classrooms, students are taught to follow and memorize procedures to arrive at the correct solution to problems. In this article, author Mike Flynn suggests a way to move beyond answer-getting to true problem solving. He describes an instructional approach called three-act tasks in which students solve an engaging math problem in…

Because of the complex interaction between economic class and learning, improving mathematics education for all while narrowing achievement gaps is no simple task. As a young teacher, the author conducted action research to determine how low-SES and high-SES 7th graders responded to a problem-centered mathematics curriculum. To her dismay, she…

Discusses collaborative work as part of the school reform movement. Includes case examples of five collaborative programs. Also provides a list of guidelines for developing collaborative programs. (MD)

In April 2000, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics will release "Principles and Standards in School Mathematics," a revised document stressing conceptual understanding and reasoning. NCTM standards specify that curricula should emphasize five mathematical processes: problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication,…