This is the first of four columns by Tim Erikson which introduces us to the Common Online Data Analysis Platform (CODAP). CODAP is a free, web-based software tool that your students can use for many types of tasks. This first column shows how CODAP can be used for mathematical modelling and where it might fit with the "Australian Curriculum:…

Mathematical modeling occupies an unusual space in the undergraduate mathematics curriculum: typically an "advanced" course, it nonetheless has little to do with formal proof, the usual hallmark of advanced mathematics. Mathematics departments are thus forced to decide what role they want the modeling course to play, both as a component of the…

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of socially relevant mathematics applications in high school mathematics classrooms and students' views of mathematics in light of their experiences with these applications. Also, the study sought to determine whether inquiries afforded by these applications incorporated features that promoted…

Presents suggestions for making statistical topics interesting and relevant in the classroom. For each of the topics, a general discussion is followed by a suggested teaching sequence with specific activities and examples. (PK)

A fairly traditional precalculus problem is modified to address some common concerns with the teaching of problem solving. Areas of problem solving which are illustrated include: posing the problem; modeling the problem; transforming the data; and examining the solution. (PK)

"Seeing Fractions" is an instructional unit for teachers in California that was trial tested in about 30 classrooms, grades 4 through 6 with diverse student populations, and designed to help students become aware of the variety of ways in which fractions are commonly used. The Introduction includes an overview of fractions and what…