The focus of this study is on the role of achievement goals in students' persistence. The authors administered 5 puzzles to 96 college students: 4 unsolvable and 1 relatively easy (acting as a hope probe). They examined whether and how persistence may deteriorate as a function of failing the puzzles, as well as whether and how persistence may…

Two important factors that influence problem solving are the nature of the task and the kind of knowledge brought to the problem by the solver. After a consideration of the definition of a problem, puzzle problems are discussed, as are problem representation and general processes of solution. Also discussed is the question of solving problems that…

Five graded sets of examples of alphametrics are provided. The puzzles are suggested for use in developing the traits of considering all possibilities and systematic working. (MP)

Provides four pages of practice problems covering the skills of multiplication, addition, and subtraction. Follows the premise that many arithmetic operations be done in working toward a solution. The sheets could be photocopied as worksheets or handouts. (JM)

Provides domino geometry problems, problems with arithmetic progressions, and magic pentagram sums. (JM)

Answers to a list of twenty geometry-related questions are hidden in a matrix of letters. The answers can be read in eight different directions: vertically, horizontally, on both diagonals, forward, and backward. (MN)

Reviewed are 15 studies on cognitive style and problem solving in science education. The effects of problem context, problem type, and three kinds of cognitive style on subjects' abilities to encounter and solve problems are investigated. Three protocols of the subjects' encountering activities are provided. (YP)

Develops a classification scheme for mathematical problem-solving activities. Presents problems generated in solid and plane geometry and fractions. (JM)

Discusses making tessellations by using a polyomino. Illustrates the various ways for various shapes of polyomino. Provides several diagrams and instructional guides. (YP)

STARS (Secondary Training for Alaskan Rural Students) materials resulted from extensive rewriting of the Vocational Adult Secondary Training (VAST) materials produced by the British Columbia Department of Education, after those materials had been used with the 9th and 10th graders on Kodiak Island. Revision was done by teachers who had been using…