Graphing polar curves typically involves a combination of three traditional techniques, all of which can be time-consuming and tedious. However, an alternative method--graphing the polar function on a rectangular plane--simplifies graphing, increases student understanding of the polar coordinate system, and reinforces graphing techniques learned…

When taking mathematics courses, students will sometimes ask their recurring question, "When will I ever use this in real life?" Educators are often unable to provide a direct connection between what they are teaching in the classroom and a real-life application. However, when such an opportunity does arise, they should seize it and…

The fundamental theorem of calculus, in its simplified complexity, connects differential and integral calculus. The power of the theorem comes not merely from recognizing it as a mathematical fact but from using it as a systematic tool. As a high school calculus teacher, the author developed and taught lessons on this fundamental theorem that were…

Graphing bivariate data in a scatter plot and drawing an approximate line of best fit for the data have become commonly recommended activities for middle school and high school students. The graphing calculator has provided a mechanism for students both to approximate a best-fit line and to calculate the best-fit line using a built-in option. Two…

When teaching mathematics with technology, the author does so in the belief that technology enables students to experience mathematical ideas in a way that might not otherwise be possible. However, teachers must be careful: Sometimes technology does not produce results in the way that they or their students expect. Rather than allowing unexpected…

In this article, the authors discuss the importance of unexpected graphs as a vehicle for encouraging critical classroom dialogue. By examining such graphs more critically, teachers and their students can reexamine beliefs about the authority of technology in their classrooms. (Contains 15 figures.)

Discusses how to set the size of the viewing window for a graphing calculator so that it is "user friendly" for all levels of students. Visually correct graphs, numerical interpretation, determining screen size, and setting friendly windows are addressed. (AIM)

Presents strategies that utilize graphing calculators and computer software to help students understand the concept of minimizing the squared residuals to find the line of best fit. Includes directions for least-squares drawings using a variety of technologies. (DDR)

Describes the results of a teacher's exploration of the effects of using graphing calculators in calculus instruction in sections other than those that are experimental. Two experimental and two traditional sections of Calculus I and II participated in the study. (DDR)

This article describes a solution, using CAS, to graph theory problem that was presented in the movie "Good Will Hunting."

Explores the effects of varying the coefficients in the general quadratic function using graphing calculators. (MKR)

The calculator is used to obtain values for use in graphing curves. Three worksheets are included. (MP)

An example is given of a class of problems whose solutions require the use of a scientific calculator in order to plot the graphs. (MP)

Cooperative groups were given transparencies of eight regular inscribed polygons and overlays of corresponding circumscribed polygons and were asked to find the perimeters and ratios of perimeter to diameter. Transparencies give students a graphic illustration of limits. Includes reproducible worksheet. (NI)

Uses parametric equations and a graphing calculator to investigate the connections among the algebraic, numerical, and graphical representations of functions. (MKR)