Techniques for applying mathematical concepts in the real world: six rarely taught but crucial tools for analysis, research, and problem-solving. Many young graduates leave school with a solid knowledge of mathematical concepts but struggle to apply these concepts in practice. Real scientific and engineering problems are different from those found…

The probability of selecting two matching socks is discussed. (MNS)

Methods of determining probabilities of various outcomes of the game Yahtzee are described. (SD)

Presents an educational game on probability that can be the starting point for an open-ended statistical project. (ASK)

A realistic problem is presented, computing the probability of winning a sports playoff series if the probability if winning a single game is known. Only simple permutation formulas and some basic logic are required to solve the problem. Two computer programs and a discussion of solution methods are included. (MNS)

Suggestions for five activities are presented. They include: ideas for several student problem-solving projects; preparing a flowsheet and program for 10 coin and dice games; using word processor formatting commands to create word designs; creating sounds; and writing a program to print out sums indefinitely. (JN)

Presents activities that allow primary grade students to develop specific thinking strategies for basic facts such as counting on, using doubles, and making 10 in problem-solving settings. Discusses other topics such as probability, spatial sense, and money. Offers rich opportunities for reasoning and communication. (ASK)

Solutions to a problem on seating arrangements and one on a box-office situation are discussed; a statistical approach is used. Four computer programs are included. (MNS)

Use of the computer to simulate or imitate probability problems that are difficult to analyze in any other way is discussed. How the Monte Carlo method works is clarified, with sample problems and programs. (MNS)

The famous birthday problem is discussed and activities which can be used with it as an introduction to probability are examined. (SD)

Presents an activity introducing probability and patterns to multigrade students. Uses the storybook "The Thirteen Days of Halloween" to demonstrate numbers, patterns, and probability. (ASK)

Some uncomplicated illustrations of how probability yields results that seem in conflict with traditional intuition are given. (MNS)

Investigates the problem of finding the expected number of questions necessary to identify 1 out of a set of 30 attribute blocks. Solutions include the use of a tree diagram or a computer simulation. Generalizes the problem for increased numbers of attributes. (MDH)

This booklet resulted from a 1980 visit by the author, a Hungarian mathematics educator, to the Teachers' Center Project at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Included are activities and problems that make probablility concepts accessible to young children. The topics considered are: two probability games; choosing two beads; matching…

Activities related to content areas important to the primary mathematics program, but outside the scope of arithmetic, geometry and measurement, are presented. Topics include relations, number sentences, solving sentences, logic, probability, statistics, number theory, and the system of integers, Inclusion of these topics is justified and…