States the objectives and implementation procedures for this teacher-directed or individualized learning discovery unit. Describes the value of the program and additional activities that can be included. Shows a copy of the program. (RT)

Discusses some of the aspects of problem solving that teachers can observe for assessment purposes in a student's practical and written work. Suggests that these observations can be incorporated into a student's assessment traditionally or using alternative assessment devices. (PK)

This study describes problem solving instruction by nine seventh grade mathematics teachers and compares it to basic skills instruction. Comparison of the activity structures and teacher and observer ratings reveals few major differences between types of instruction. Between-teacher differences in activity structures were greater than differences…

Teachers and students can view the world of animals together through an exploration of how-and-why questions about animals in this curriculum unit. The problem-solving and critical thinking skills of students are improved through interactive activities involving oral and written communication, mathematics, creative arts, music, dance, and creative…

This booklet is designed to be used with a video of the classroom of second-grade teacher Victoria Bill. The 40-minute video shows the teacher using a variety of manipulations, facilitating both large- and small-group discussions, and applying a problem-solving approach to math. The text in the booklet is based on spoken comments made by observers…

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Curriculum and Evaluation Standards puts great stress on the mathematical processes of problem solving, communication, reasoning, and making connections. NCTM standards also emphasize new and emerging content areas for middle school students such as algebra, data analysis, and probability.…

Types of strategies used by (n=36) fourth-, sixth-, and eighth-grade students solving comparison of area tasks were identified and classified. Most students used a direct comparison strategy to compare areas. Use of a part-whole strategy increased with the introduction of fractional terms and symbols. (23 references) (MKR)

Thirty-six Korean first graders were interviewed to study their ability solving addition problems with sums of 10, single-digit sums between 10 and 18, and subtraction problems with minuends between 10 and 18. Finger methods to show sums over 10 and the regular named-10 Korean number words supported their learning of 3 efficient recomposition…

Presents a study that indicates that second grade students (n=117) do select manipulatives that match the story context in measurement and partition division word problems, that they can solve division word problems, especially when matched manipulatives are used, and that division without remainders are more accessible to solution. (39…

Proposes that problem scenarios are activities that give students opportunities to employ mathematics across the curriculum by asking them to define problems, identify information needed and potential sources of data, and make related conjectures. Discusses an example of a scenario involving transportation. (MDH)

Discusses a new approach to mathematics education that moves away from methods that tell students what to do and toward methods that help students build mental representations of mathematical concepts. Contrasts the previous and emerging views and examines aspects of the new approach. (26 references) (MDH)

Presents a unit to review geometric concepts and problem solving by having students work cooperatively to discover geometric shapes constructed from two congruent right triangles obtained from cutting a rectangle along its diagonal. Students report their findings both orally and in writing. (MDH)

Describes the method to solve problems called T-E-M-T-T: trial, error, and modified trial through technology. The method integrates students' skills of estimation, mental computation, and appropriate choice of calculator use. Includes 2 activities for each of grades K-4 and 5-8 that illustrate the method. (MDH)

Describes a mobile computer lab set up in a converted bus that is used by fourth graders as part of the math curriculum. The program, which emphasizes problem solving and spatial visualization, also addresses gender differences and in-service teacher training. The physical arrangements, including provisions for computer security, are described.…

Presents two spreadsheets for middle school students applying Polya's heuristic to help develop number sense, reasoning abilities, and problem-solving skills. Spreadsheet 1, "the coin problem," allows students to vary coin quantities to total $8.32. Spreadsheet 2, "ratios," develops number relationships while finding 3 3-digit…