Recognizing, building, describing, extending, and analyzing patterns are key components of algebraic reasoning. Oftentimes pattern-based instruction is used to support the understanding of functions and variables. In this study, elementary preservice teachers (n = 23) were asked to explore, extend, explain, create equations for, and analyze…

The purpose of this study is to compare the differences of four essential aspects (i.e., representational forms, contextual features, cognitive demand levels, and response types) embedded in mathematical problems within the topics of numbers and operations in mathematics textbooks used in Finland, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan. This…

Logarithms are notorious for being a difficult concept to understand and teach. Research suggests that learners can be supported in understanding logarithms by making connections between mathematics and science concepts such as pH. This study investigated how an integrated chemistry and mathematics lesson impacted 29 teachers' understanding of the…

Mathematical Induction is used for direct proofs of many theorems; its logical equivalent, the Well-Ordering Property, replaced it to yield indirect proofs by contradiction. The author claims the later property is easier to comprehend and that it affords a non-geometrical example of proof by contradiction. (JP)

This article gives two methods of resolving natural numbers into prime factors. Depending upon the number that is being resolved, one method may be better to use than the other. However, it is difficult to tell beforehand which is the better method to employ. Examples are given. (Author/MA)

Describes properties of Fibonacci numbers, including the law of recurrence and relationship with the Golden Ratio. Discussed are some applications of the numbers to sewage of towns on a river bank, resistances in electric circuits, and leafy stems in botany. Lists four references. (YP)

This theoretical paper proposes a way to extend the partitive and measurement interpretations of whole number division to fractional contexts focusing on the issue of units. We define the unit-changing and unit-keeping interpretations for division and suggest a stronger and earlier focus on the concept of units in courses for prospective…

A model for multiplication is described and used to discuss the properties of division. (SD)

Presents a lesson to compute differences of positive and negative numbers using historical events of science. Describes the skills, concepts, objectives, rationale, outline, procedure, evaluation, and extensions of the lesson. Provides a list of events in the history of science. (YP)

The introduction of prime numbers in the intermediate grades should be handled with care or the concept will appear arbitrary, artificial, and unreal to the pupils. The approach suggested here is in the form of a game-like activity. A knowledge of multiplication and factors is a prerequisite. (BB)

This study examined average-, high- and top-performing US fourth graders' rational number problem solving and their understanding of rational number representations. In phase one, all students completed a written test designed to tap their skills for multiplication, division and rational number word-problem solving. In phase two, a subset of…

This study suggests that the implementation of non-decimal numeration as a vehicle of instruction seems to have no effect on mathematical understanding of base 10. (Author/CP)

Examines 199 middle school students' understanding of percent, focusing on number sense. Reports that students performed better interpreting a quantity expressed as a percent given a pictorial continuous region than when a pictorial discrete set of circles was given. Students had difficulty interpreting a quantity expressed as a percent of a…