This article describes the use of digital images of real-life phenomena and interactive software to carry out mathematics investigations. (Contains 13 figures.)

Using a staircase to introduce the concept of slope is discussed. (DT)

Presents four activities that use graphing calculators, spreadsheets, and graphing software to model population growth. (MKR)

By developing a sequence of mathematical models of harmonic motion, shows that mathematical models are not right or wrong, but instead are better or poorer representations of the problem situation. (MKR)

The activity uses an area model to analyze probabilities associated with games of chance. Three activity sheets are included, with teaching suggestions. (MNS)

Directions are given for making a model of a three-dimensional coordinate graph. (DT)

By considering colors as sets of wavelengths and using Boolean Algebra of sets, the effects of combining colors can be represented in a formal mathematical system. (SD)

An example of how geometry serves as a model in the real world is outlined, with suggestions on how it might be used at the high school level. (MNS)

The recursive model presented here involves the study of drugs in the bloodstream and their subsequent elimination from the body. Both a basic and a more realistic model are presented and discussed in terms of an algebraic approach, a recursive approach, the graphical representation, and other extensions and connections particularly with models…

Geometric concepts and theorems can be discovered by high school students using the materials described. Among the topics explored are Platonic solids and Euler's formula. (SD)

Two models are presented that can be understood by students who have completed second-year algebra, as well as by calculus students. The predator-prey population model and the arms race model are included, with a computer program given for each. (MNS)

Presents activities in which students study exponential growth and decay by collecting data, constructing graphs, and discovering algebraic formulas. (MKR)

Uses probability models in problem-solving activities based on an episode of the television show "Gunsmoke." (MKR)

Two simulations designed to teach probability to middle-school age pupils are presented. The first simulates the one-on-one foul shot simulation in basketball; the second deals with collecting a set of six cereal box prizes by buying boxes containing one toy each. (MP)

A visual model of fractions, the tower of bars, is used to discover patterns. Examples include equalities, inequalities, sums of unit fractions, sums of differences, symmetry, and differences and products. Infinite sequences of numbers, infinite series, and concepts of limits can be introduced. (DC)