Thirty-six secondary school students aged 14-16 were interviewed while they chose between a table, a graph or a formula to solve three linear function problems. The justifications for their choices were classified as (1) task-related if they explicitly mentioned the to-be-solved problem, (2) subject-related if students mentioned their own…

Nonroutine function tasks are more challenging than most typical high school mathematics tasks. Nonroutine tasks encourage students to expand their thinking about functions and their approaches to problem solving. As a result, they gain greater appreciation for the power of multiple representations and a richer understanding of functions. This…

Graphing utilities, such as the ubiquitous graphing calculator, are often used in finding the approximate real roots of polynomial equations. In this paper the author offers a simple graphing technique that allows one to find all solutions of a polynomial equation (1) of arbitrary degree; (2) with real or complex coefficients; and (3) possessing…

This article provides for a fast extremely accurate approach to graphing functions that is based on learning function reference graphs and then applying algebraic transformations to these reference graphs.

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)

Suggests computer graphing as a topic for computer programing. Reviews Apple II computer graphics information and gives suggestions for writing the programs. Presents equations to help place information onto the screen with proper coordinates. (MVL)

Discusses the use of graphing calculators for polar and parametric equations. Presents eight lines of the program for the graph of a parametric equation and 11 lines of the program for a graph of a polar equation. Illustrates the application of the programs for planetary motion and free-fall motion. (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)

The formula used by the telephone company to determine long distance charges is presented and several sample problems are included. (MP)

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)

This section provides mathematical activities in reproducible formats appropriate for students in grades 8-10. The activity is designed to provide an experience in model building while developing the concept of slope. (PK)

This project involves devising and evaluating a sales tax schedule to meet the specific revenue needs of a hypothetical state in the United States. Conducting this unit involves many mathematical skills in a learning environment familiar to the student. The essential parts of the project consist of student preparation of a tax schedule and class…

Unified Technical Concepts (UTC) is a modular system for teaching applied physics in two-year postsecondary technician programs. This UTC classroom textbook, consisting of 10 chapters, deals with mathematical concepts as they apply to the study of physics. Addressed in the individual chapters of the text are the following topics: angles and…

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

Explains graphing functions when using LOTUS 1-2-3. Provides examples and explains keystroke entries needed to make the graphs. Notes up to six functions can be displayed on the same set of axes. (MVL)