The actuarial profession is described to provide secondary school mathematics teachers insights into how actuaries use mathematics in solving real life problems. Examples are provided involving compound interest, the probability of dying, and inflation with computer modeling. (MDH)

A Reuleaux triangle is constructed by drawing an arc connecting each pair of vertices of an equilateral triangle with radius equal to the side of the triangle. Investigates the application of drilling a square hole using a drill bit in the shape of a Reuleaux triangle. (MDH)

A lawn-mowing problem is discussed in terms of clarifying the problem; making initial conjectures; experimenting; developing a solution; and supporting formulas, theorems, and corollaries. (MNS)

Since many texts use an incorrect argument in obtaining the instantaneous velocity of a rotating body, a correct and concise derivation of this quantity for a rather general case is given. (Author/SK)

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

Ritzville Pyramids are cone-shaped piles of wheat found near the community of Ritzville, Washington. Presents the practical problem of determining the volume and surface area of a Ritzville pyramid to help farmers solve cost-effectiveness questions related to selling the wheat. (MDH)

This paper presents a laboratory exercise in which an integration problem is applied to cinematography, without the need for apparatus. The problem situation is about the oscillation control of a camera platform to attain the contrast angular rate of objects. Wave equations for describing the oscillations are presented and an expression for…

A laboratory experiment, based on a simple electric circuit that can be used to demonstrate the existence of real-world "related rates" problems, is outlined and an equation for voltage across the capacitor terminals during discharge is derived. The necessary materials, setup methods, and experimental problems are described. A student laboratory…

This study examined the effects of the locus of three computer assisted instruction (CAI) strategies on the accuracy and efficiency of mathematics rule and application learning of 47 low-achieving seventh grade students in remedial mathematics classes. The instructional task was a mathematics rule lesson concerning divisibility by the numbers two,…

Presents results of an investigation of a formula for rank correlation. The exploration turned up an unexpected connection and showed the formula to be far from arbitrary. (PK)

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)

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)

Shows that the ratio of the area of the quadrilateral formed by joining the kth points to the area of the original quadrilateral is constant whether it is convex or concave quadrilateral. Presents many geoboard or dot paper diagrams and geometrical expresssions. (YP)

This article shows the application of the ratio concept to the working of a 10-speed bicycle using a formula and tables. Two references are listed. (YP)