Discussed is a method of approximating the roots of a quadratic that allows the discovery of relationships between parabolas and circles and between the use of geometry and algebra. Included are the procedure and justification of the method. (KR)

Discusses a classroom presentation using a Tonka toy truck's forward and backward motion that (1) develops a graphical representation of the truck's one-dimensional motion; (2) creates graphs representing constant velocity; (3) leads students to a definition of average velocity; and (4) introduces the concept of instantaneous velocity. (MDH)

Explores algebraic thinking as children search for patterns while collecting, organizing, and graphing data and as they derive equations describing relationships found in the data. (ASK)

Presents a brief definition and examples of residue designs while sharing some of the algebraic thought that a student used to form generalizations about the patterns discovered during the investigations of residue designs. (ASK)

This article describes three engaging introductions for topics on a Cartesian graph and the distributive property. (Contains 3 figures.)

This article addresses the enhancement of the learning environment by using Java applets in the mathematics classroom. Currently, the first year mathematics program at the United States Military Academy involves one semester of modeling with discrete dynamical systems (DDS). Several faculty members from the Academy have integrated Java applets…

This paper extends and develops theories of mathematical learning to provide a framework for the analysis of classroom video data of students working at a computer in a task aimed at increasing understanding of multiple representations of quadratic functions. Student interactions are coded using novel software tools in the process of analysis, and…

Research has often found little or no significant differences in overall performance for math students using graphing calculators compared to traditional (non-calculator) classes. However, when performance is divided into procedural and conceptual levels, significant differences appear at the conceptual level. This study investigates the relation…

This resource book for algebra contains games, tricks, and quick activities for the classroom. Categories of activities include puzzlers, patterns, manipulatives, measurement, graphing, and a section that contains reproducible statement and value cards. Twenty one puzzle problems, four pattern activities, and 11 quick activities that engage…

The advent of calculators for graphing and function plotters is changing the way college algebra and calculus are taught. This paper illustrates how the machines are used for teaching the following: (1) domain and range; (2) product and quotient inequalities; and (3) the solving of equations. Instructional hints are provided for each topic with…

The high percentage of high school pre-algebra students having difficulty learning the abstract concept of graphing ordered pairs on the Cartesian rectangular coordinate system was addressed by the creation and implementation of a computer-managed instructional program. Modules consisted of a pretest, instruction, two practice sessions, and a…

This guide was prepared as an instructional aid for teachers of a first-year course in Algebra. It was designed to be applicable to the wide range of Algebra 1 programs being offered in the junior and senior high schools. In this guide, the content of the Algebra 1 program has been divided into 11 major units, each unit organized around student…

This mathematics curriculum guide was developed in response to the need for an updated regional mathematics guide identifying common student performance expectations of the professional staff. The expectations, stated as instructional objectives, have been organized into two major components: (1) an overall "Mathematics Comprehensive Program…

Reviews for three software packages are given. These include "Equation Math," consisting of three programs for exploring graphs of the equations; "Recycling Logic," instructing students in the basics of reasoning; and "Turboplot-3D," intended for university-level mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer courses. (PK)

Offers practical tips on teaching secondary mathematics topics. The ideas are classroom-tested approaches that offer new slants on familiar subjects. The topics discussed include the interpretation of mathematical symbolism in concrete terms, ellipses, and vectors. (PK)