Part I reviews the mathematical definition of function, and then presents some practical uses of functions in such areas as substitution in a formula, equation solving, and curve fitting. Part II gives examples of functions that can be used to describe some real life situations. (RP)

Using data about companies with which children have first-hand experience (such as McDonald's or Mattel Toys) piques interest in graphing activities. How the project is developed, with group and individual activities, is described. (MNS)

A restaurant menu is used to apply mathematics to real situations. A variety of mathematical problems, as well as applications to other content areas, is suggested. (JT)

Five reasons why graph work is effective are given, followed by suggestions for making bar, picto-, and line graphs. (MS)

Some problems and classroom problem-solving settings presented in a mathematics methods course for elementary teachers are described and some results of student's involvement in the program are illustrated. (MN)

Track cards are manipulative materials used to promote verbalization, spatial perception, eye-hand coordination, simple problem solving, and fun in doing mathematics. (JT)

Results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress related to student ability to use information from graphs and charts is discussed. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Defines the mathematical concept of proportionality. Uses graphs of linear relationships to explore and make generalizations about the characteristics of proportional situations to help students critically evaluate problems involving proportions. (MDH)

Introducing network theory to schoolchildren is promoted as a way of encouraging students to deal with new situations, be unafraid of challenges, and learn to think. Several applications, methods of analysis, and suggestions for further activities are provided. (MP)

Presents four sets of activities to develop the concepts of data analysis and graphing. Students estimate sample populations using beans, examine graphs from newspapers and magazines, predict the most popular color of cars, and simulate quality control in a manufacturing process. (MDH)

Reviews following computer materials: Coordinate Math; How the West Was One + Three x Four; Math Facts Lottery, Basic Skills Game; Math Tutor, Division; Now You See It, Now You Don't; Pinball Math, Basic Skills Game; Place Value-Add/Subtract; Quarter Mile; Regrouping; Sailing through Story Problems; Scope Math, Computer Mathematics Course for…

Presented are activities that focus on gathering, using, and interpreting data about fingerprints as a basis for integrating mathematics and science. Patterns, classification, logical reasoning, and mathematical relationships are explored by making graphs, classifying fingerprints, and matching identical fingerprints. A parent-involvement activity…

Provides 5 activities for levels K-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, and for the family that incorporate data collection and interpretation in the decision-making process. Activities investigate taste preference, voter preference, meal preference at the school open house, three close presidential elections, and questions about the years and dates of presidential…