These activities focus on the unifying concept of faster-moving fluids lowering fluid pressure. Students are able to visualize and measure the dynamics of fluid pressure with the hands-on approach of these activities, which helps to develop conceptual understanding. Activities are organized to show many examples of the same concept to reveal…

Compares collaborative problem solving by learners sitting side-by-side with computer-mediated learning at a distance. Three aspects are studied: high school students' problem- solving strategies and interpretation of the teaching situation; their use of components of the situation; and the cognitive processes involved in understanding domain…

Discussed is the value of making writing a regular part of the mathematics curriculum. Writing skills can be used in creating word problems, bilingual classrooms, process problems, mathematics journals, and as a diagnostic tool. Included are examples of students math work and written explanations. (KR)

Describes an action research study that observed the use of Logo by first grade children in public schools. Students' use of screen wraps is highlighted, and learning activities other than programing that resulted are described, including problem solving, acquisition of mathematical concepts and language, peer tutoring, and productive play. (LRW)

Describes study designed to examine the effects of textual and/or computer animated orienting strategies and practice on rule-using and problem-solving skills of elementary school students using computer-assisted instruction. Four different versions of a lesson based on Isaac Newton's Law of Motion are described, and results are analyzed. (28…

The performance of sixth and seventh graders on a variety of tasks involving estimation and reasonableness of results were studied. Also examined was the effect of a short unit of activities on these two topics. Correct answers approximately doubled after instruction. (MNS)

Proposes the use of the oral activity "pyramid discussion," involving students in stimulating small-group problem-solving tasks that encourage the practice of both listening and speaking skills, in order to increase advanced English-as-a-Second-Language students' seminar and discussion skills. (CB)

Describes teaching methods employed in German elementary school classrooms that develop discovery, creativity, and a spirit of cooperation in students learning mathematics. Methods included free choice of learning activities by students and small group cooperative activities. Students' motivation, self-confidence, social and communications skills,…

Demonstrates the use of "Jumping the Broom," a children's book, to integrate mathematics and social studies. Discusses the use of problem solving, finding patterns, and making conjectures by studying the quilt pattern used in the story. (MKR)

Presents a lesson using chocolate chip cookies to involve children in scientific investigation and mathematical reasoning. (Author/MKR)

Presented is an activity which shows how mathematics is used in real life and helps to establish a need for mathematics in students' futures. Adapted from a scavenger-hunt idea, this activity helps students to discover that almost every career makes use of mathematics. (KR)

Four techniques used to incorporate writing and active learning into mathematics classrooms are described. They include summary sheets, short focused writing, medium length writing, and student presentations. Examples of how each technique can be used are included. (KR)

This article describes a calculus lesson that illustrates the nature of cycles in simple systems of nonlinear differential equations through the use of the Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model as incorporated in the computer software package, Phaser (version 1.0). (JJK)

Develops the idea of fractals through a laboratory activity that calculates the fractal dimension of ordinary white bread. Extends use of the fractal dimension to compare other complex structures as other breads and sponges. (MDH)

Small group work has grown in use throughout the 1980s. Reported are six issues that were raised concerning small groups resulting from a series of workshops for university students in which the students worked on problems in groups, jointly planned tasks, and critiquing their use during their practice experience. (MDH)