This paper illustrates a method by which geography students can experience a process of inquiry and problem-solving by using data banks as a resource. Examples are given of open-ended and structured classroom utilization of a data bank for students to study the socioeconomic structure of Wichita, Kansas. (Author/AV)

This Technical Paper focuses on principles for teaching problem solving. Part 1 addresses the need to teach problem solving. Part 2 defines problem solving skills, and describes: general problem solving models of the 1960s and 1970s, current problem solving models, declarative knowledge, mental models, expert versus novice knowledge, procedural…

This exercise in mathematical modelling requires understanding of geometric progressions, inequalities, and absolutes. It presents a problem on credit creation in the banking system. (MNS)

Brief articles on a linguistic approach to learning mathematics vocabulary, designing cross-figure puzzles, an activity with probability, and a problem with an erroneous solution are included in this section. (MNS)

Educational activities based on easily constructed peg games are detailed, along with advice on how they can be constructed. The activities are designed to guide students to collect and organize data; recognize, extend, and generalize patterns; and develop problem-solving strategies. (MP)

A learning pattern designed to help students cut down the amount of memorization needed in learning the basic multiplication facts is suggested and reviewed. (MP)

A theory is proposed of the processes which enable a subject to learn while solving a problem. One subject's protocol--including 224 steps and taking 90 minutes--is described. Adequacy of the mechanisms is guaranteed by a computer simulation of the processes in an adaptive production system. (Author/GDC)

Four procedures used by children for deriving answers to unknown subtraction facts are described. They are counting forward, counting backward, derivation, and bridging. (MP)

The basic purpose of the process approach discussed in this presentation is to involve teachers, students, and ultimately the community in problem solving situations which can lead to attitude changes about the management of the environment. (JC)

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 an activity that utilizes four pattern blocks to help students understand and explain perimeter. Engages students in making and supporting conjectures about a scenario that involves trains composed of various shapes with different perimeters. (DDR)

Describes a mathematics trail created on the campus of Exeter Academy and in the town of Exeter, New Hampshire. A series of problems and puzzles enabled teachers to teach mathematics outdoors. Novel questions were created to permit students to look at things from a different perspective. Participants were often inspired to create questions of…

Presented is a problem involving a real-life situation involving simple ideas, computation, and a proof. A variety of other situations in which this type of problem may be applied are discussed. (CW)

Discussed is the case for problem solving in mathematics classrooms. The characteristics of "good" questions are identified. The assessment of questions and questioning techniques is considered. (CW)