In this article we discuss relationships between the cyclic group Z[subscript 12] and Western tonal music that is embedded in a 12-note division of the octave. We then offer several questions inviting students to explore extensions of these relationships to other "n"-note octave divisions. The answers to most questions require only basic…

Finite Mathematics has become an enormously rich and productive area of contemporary mathematical biology. Fortunately, educators have developed educational modules based upon many of the models that have used Finite Mathematics in mathematical biology research. A sufficient variety of computer modules that employ graph theory (phylogenetic trees,…

Theorising STEM Education in the 21st Century is a book that captures the essence of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and the intricacies of STEM education in the contemporary society. It explores STEM as an interdisciplinary field as well as the individual disciplines that make up STEM. This ensures the field of STEM as a whole is…

By converting functional equations to cylindrical coordinates, plotting points on cardboard, and connecting these points with thread, one can make three-dimensional string figures illustrating the behavior of functions for which the derivative is not always defined. (SD)

A discussion of the relation between traffic density, speed and flow, used as an illustration of the ideas of functions and mathematical models. (MM)

Develops two-dimensional descriptions of degenerate transformations using elementary matrix algebra. (RS)

There are many problems that can be translated into the language of graph theory. Such a problem, discussed in this article is to show that in any group of two or more people, there are at least two people who have the same number of acquaintances in the group. (PK)

Three models to predict future world records for footraces are reviewed. The records for the mile run are presented with time and year given in linear, hyperbolic, and experiential relationships. (MP)

One of the great strengths of mathematics is viewed as the fact that apparently diverse real-world questions translate into that same mathematical question. It is felt that studying a mathematical problem can often bring about a tool of surprisingly diverse usability. The module is geared to help users know how to use graph theory to model simple…

Models of the motion of an object through space are discussed. The material begins with the simplest view possible in which gravity is the only force examined. Discussion progresses to an examination of the drag force, which is the resistive air force of the wind. Suggestions for further improvements are made at the conclusion of the presentation.…

This unit views applications of elementary game theory to international relations. It is noted that of all the significant world problems, the nuclear arms race has proved one of the most intractable. The main concern of the module is to investigate a possible solution to the arms race, based on extending the classic two-person game of Prisoner's…

Discussed is the process of translating situations involving changing quantities into mathematical relationships. This process, called dynamical modeling, allows students to learn new mathematics while sharpening their algebraic skills. A description of dynamical systems, problem-solving methods, a graphical analysis, and available classroom…

The Proceedings of PME-XVIII have been published in four separate volumes because of the large number of individual conference papers reported. Volume I contains brief reports for 11 Working Groups and 8 Discussion Groups, 55 "Short Oral Communications," 28 Posters, 5 Plenary Panel reports, and 4 Plenary Session reports. Volume II…