Scaffolding is the asymmetrical social co-enactment of natural or cultural practice, wherein a more able agent implements or performs for a novice elements of a challenging activity. What the novice may not learn, however, is how the expert's co-enactments support the activity. Granted, in many cultural practices novices need not understand…

Every object we think of or encounter, whether a natural or human-made, has a regular or irregular shape. In its own intrinsic conceptual design, it has elements of mathematics, science, engineering, and arts, etc., which are part of the object's geometric shape, form and structure. Geometry is not only an important part of mathematics, but it is…

The aim of this study is to reveal the benefits gained from "Special Training Methods II" course and the problems prospective mathematics teachers encountered with it. The case study method was used in the study. The participants in the study were 34 prospective mathematics teachers studying at a Primary School Mathematics Education…

After a unit on the rules for positive and negative numbers and the order of operations for evaluating algebraic expressions, many students believe that they understand these principles well enough, but they really do not. They clearly need more practice, but not more of the same kind of drill. Wallace-Gomez provides three graphing activities that…

A WebQuest is an inquiry-based lesson plan that uses the Internet. This article explains what a WebQuest is, shows how to create one, and provides an example. When engaged in a WebQuest, students use technology to experience cooperative learning and discovery learning while honing their research, writing, and presentation skills. It has been found…

The progression from simple interest to compound interest leads naturally and quickly to the number e, involving mathematical discovery learning through writing programs. Several programs are given, with suggestions for a teaching sequence. (MNS)

Some examples for investigating shapes in the environment are given. Circular objects, triangulation, symmetrical designs, and further investigations are listed. (MNS)

Graph theory is promoted as a vehicle for using the discovery method. A lesson is presented to illustrate the method, and activities and questions for further exploration are provided. (MNS)

Math manipulatives that are made from inexpensive, common items help students understand basic mathematics concepts. Learning activities using Cheerios, jellybeans, and clay as teaching materials are suggested. (DF)

Details of pupil exploration as to the largest number of sides that a polygon could have on a geoboard are presented. The problem is not seen as open-ended, but many different avenues of pursuit stem from it. (MP)

Calculators are seen to shift the student focus in problem-solving situations from "how to do it" to "what to do," by keeping computation from standing in the way when pupils write or solve problems. (MP)

Outlines the discovery of an advanced calculus class based on the generalization of the relationship between the volume of a right circular cone and the volume of a right cylinder with same height and base radius while studying solids of revolution. Relates the course of discovery and concludes with plans to use it to try to generate the same…

An activity project is described which encourages students to question and experiment. Appendices provide examples of student results. (MNS)

The properties of the cube are explored. A set of activities is given that forms the basis of a class project on discovery. (MNS)

Alternative identification and instructional procedures are discussed. Instructors are warned against assuming an equivalence between the quantity of mathematical work a child demonstrates and the quality of that child's thinking. A need to integrate qualitative information is seen. Two types of activities for gifted pupils are detailed. (MP)