An iPad® can be used to teach students to graph parabolas with ease and grasp vocabulary quickly. Parabolas come to life for students in this easily implemented activity described in this article. Teachers can use this tool in a fun and interactive way to not only address these graphing and vocabulary concepts but also introduce and explore…

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)

This booklet contains a representative sample of the efforts of colleagues at 11 institutions to use graphing calculators to enhance the teaching of calculus and precalculus. The first section contains examples of graphs for teachers to choose from for presentations, including: simple examples to illustrate some standard ideas in precalculus,…

Illustrates exploration of composition of functions, translations, and inverse functions on a graphing calculator. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Describes an activity in which students are given a set of designs and are required to use their electronic grapher to reproduce the designs. The activity reinforces students' understanding of lines and of the formula for a linear function. (MKR)

Introduces students to the study of dynamical systems through a number of learning activities that explore functions in general and linear and exponential functions in particular. Students use calculators to interpret graphs, find patterns in tables of data, and also use algebra. (DDR)

Describes a classroom activity designed to give students hands-on experience using technology and geometric visualization, as well as to explore fractal geometry in a cooperative classroom environment. Natural phenomena is the context of these activities. Enriches understanding of Euclidean geometry and infinite sequences. Lists materials,…

Describes several activities and games that provide an introduction to the concept of function. Suggests that experiences should depend more on students' experiences and understanding and less on the memorization of unmotivated conventions with abstract symbols. Includes activities for a calculator as a function machine, composite functions, and…

Ways of solving a problem on the connection between heat loss and the ratio of surface area to volume are described. Tables and graphs are included. (MNS)

Presents 24 activities related to the theme of area to illustrate how algebra can empower students, not impede their progress. Activities use grid tools, manipulatives, computational tools, and paper-and-pencil tools to facilitate access, discourse, independence, and multiple representations. Well-chosen themes offer connections, motivation,…

U.S. mathematics education has been criticized for being too broad. This article examines ways middle school students use simple problems and situations to foster a deeper understanding of underlying concepts. Presents a sample area and perimeter problem, describes extending the problem using tiles to determine minimum perimeter, and discusses…

Discusses the use of graphing calculators by middle school students in an enrichment program for economically disadvantaged students and describes exercises to help students develop an understanding of variables and functions. (MKR)

Middle-school students were asked to determine the dimensions of a hotel atrium so that guests could enjoy the maximum area of scenic view, given that 650 feet of brass railing could be used around each floor. Several solution approaches are described. (MKR)

Demonstrates the use of graphing technology to help students develop and interpret three models of jury behavior and explore the potential effect of such actions as changing jury size. MathCAD, an electronic notebook was used. (Contains 10 references.) (MKR)