The purpose of these modules is to provide an introduction to the world of probability and statistics to accelerated mathematics students at the high school level. The materials are centered on the fictional town of Happy Shores, a coastal community which is at risk for hurricanes. Actuaries at an insurance company figure out the risks and…

An approach to using the method of least squares, a scheme for computing the best-fitting line directly from a set of points, is detailed. The material first looks at fitting a numerical value to a set of numbers. This provides tools for solving the line-fitting problem. (MP)

Presents an allegory to illustrate the problem of testing an axiomatic system. A fictitious discussion begins by examining an axiomatic system underlying the intercom system of an association. The discussion continues to examine an unusual model of Euclidean geometry and a model of the noneuclidean geometry discovered by Lobachevsky. (MDH)

Discusses aspects of Christopher Columbus' decision to sail west in order to reach Asia. Includes discussions concerning the shape and size of the earth as determined up to Columbus' time and conclusions he made during the journey based on his calculations. (MDH)

A discussion of the mathematics of rugby is related to an earlier article about mathematics and the physical world. (MP)

Discusses the hydrodynamic reasons why a riverbed meanders through a plain. Describes how water movement at a bend in a river causes erosion and changes in the riverbed. Provides a mathematical model to explain the periodic shape of meanders of a river in a plain. (MDH)

The objective of the Reactor Dynamics Module, RD-1, is to obtain the kinetics equation without feedback and solve the kinetics equations numerically for one to six delayed neutron groups for time varying reactivity insertions. The computer code FUMOKI (Fundamental Mode Kinetics) will calculate the power as a function of time for either uranium or…

The activity uses an area model to analyze probabilities associated with games of chance. Three activity sheets are included, with teaching suggestions. (MNS)

The problems involved in making reservations for airline flights is discussed in creating a mathematical model designed to maximize an airline's income. One issue not considered in the model is any public relations problem the airline may have. The model does take into account the issue of denied boarding compensation. (MP)

Discusses flexible polyhedrons, called flexors, that can be bent so that the faces stay rigid while the angles between them seem to change. Presents models representing flexors and directions on how examples can be constructed. (MDH)

Analyzes a simple boom structure and assesses its reliability using elementary engineering mechanics. Demonstrates the power and utility of Monte-Carlo simulation by showing that such a simulation can be implemented more readily with results that compare favorably to the theoretical calculations. (Author/MM)

Presents activities in which students study exponential growth and decay by collecting data, constructing graphs, and discovering algebraic formulas. (MKR)

This collection of materials includes six units dealing with applications of matrix methods. These are: 105-Food Service Management; 107-Markov Chains; 108-Electrical Circuits; 109-Food Service and Dietary Requirements; 111-Fixed Point and Absorbing Markov Chains; and 112-Analysis of Linear Circuits. The units contain exercises and model exams,…

This document consists of five units which all view applications of mathematics to American politics. The first three view calculus applications, the last two deal with applications of algebra. The first module is geared to teach a student how to: 1) compute estimates of the value of the parameters in negative exponential models; and draw…

A rationale is provided for the notion that mathematical games can be a valuable resource for the stimulation and support of student collaboration and cooperative classroom mathematical discussion. Included are examples of tangram games, people games, and board strategy games. (JJK)