Illustrates how Lagrange's approach applies to the differential calculus of polynomial functions when approximations are obtained. Discusses how to obtain polynomial approximations in other cases. (YP)

Presents some examples from geometry: area of a circle; centroid of a sector; Buffon's needle problem; and expression for pi. Describes several roles of the trigonometric function in mathematics and applications, including Fourier analysis, spectral theory, approximation theory, and numerical analysis. (YP)

Describes the use of step-functions in modelling instruction. Classifies modelling into three categories: direct, analogical, and creative application. Provides and discusses modelling postal rates and other problems as examples. (YP)

Describes four laboratory activities in algebra and precalculus classes that provide hands-on experiences related to functions: slowing down the acceleration of gravity; calculating the acceleration of gravity; generating a parabola using a steel ball and a tilted board; and photographing projectile motion. (YP)

Suggests that in the mathematics classroom the federal income tax may serve as a familiar example to illustrate several aspects of the mathematical concept of function. (PK)

Discusses the application of probabilistic ideas, especially Monte Carlo simulation, to calculus. Describes some applications using the Monte Carlo method: Riemann sums; maximizing and minimizing a function; mean value theorems; and testing conjectures. (YP)

Describes three teaching activities for secondary school mathematics classroom: designing a house; guessing the slope function in a calculus course; and solving the six problems of bisymmetric matrices. (YP)

Discussed is a project promoting "thinking about what students did" in an Israeli high school. Five examples of the project are described with LOGO commands. Several educational ideas are provided. (YP)

Proposes lessons for algebra students using the context of tax calculations to learn about the concepts of slope, split functions, averages, rates, marginal rates, and percents. Students explore ramifications of possible tax revisions. (MDH)

Implements a table algorithm on a spreadsheet program and obtains functions for several number sequences such as the Fibonacci and Catalan numbers. Considers other applications of the table algorithm to integers represented in various number bases. (YP)

Designed as an avenue of communication for mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences of two-year college students and teachers, this journal contains articles on mathematics exposition and education, as well as regular features presenting book and software reviews and math problems. The first of two issues of volume 14…

Designed as a avenue of communication for mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences of two-year college students and teachers, this journal contains articles on mathematics exposition and education, and regular features presenting book and software reviews and math problems. Volume 15 includes the following articles:…

Describes a Calculus I project in which students discover the formula for the derivative of an exponential function. The project includes two targeted writing assignments and leads to several additional problems. Together these tasks provide a basis for an algebraic approach to the exponential function. (AIM)

Discusses the use of computers in calculus classes. Describes activities in four laboratories providing with the problems of the laboratories. (YP)

Presented is an educational game called "The Chaos Game" which produces complicated fractal images. Two basic computer programs are included. The production of fractal images by the Sierpinski gasket and the Chaos Game programs is discussed. (CW)