Teaching ideas related to the instruction of decimal division as the opposite of multiplication, an approach to approximating logarithms that help reveal their properties, and the simple creation of algebraic equations with radical expressions for use as exercises and test questions are presented. (MP)

Problems focusing on number theory that can make good use of the calculator in discovering and proving simple theorems are proposed. The focus is on the properties of subtracting the smaller of a three digit number and its mirror number from the larger in a process that leads to zero. (MP)

This section has four topics: (1) sample mathematical competency problems for Indiana Elementary Teachers circa 1920; (2) an unusual problem suitable for calculators; (3) a unique way for teaching rounding off numbers; and (4) student construction of problems that create words on calculator displays when they are turned upside down. (MP)

A calculator solution of a simple computational problem is discussed with emphasis on its ramifications for the understanding of some fundamental theorems of pure mathematics and techniques of computing. (Author/MK)

Some examples of typical nonrelevant textbook problems on probability are followed by more complex problems pulled from the real world. The resource used in this report is Newsweek magazine; and is used to help demonstrate that from the very beginning, lessons on conditional probability can have relevance. (MP)

A teacher describes the experiences of her fourth-grade students when using calculators during mathematics class. (MK)

The possibility of improving problem-solving performance and increasing interest in mathematics by incorporating calculators in the mathematics curriculum was investigated. Results indicate that teachers can experiment with calculators in the classroom without fear of endangering computational skills and a thoughtful program integrating…

Presents four methods for solving a quadratic equation using graphing calculator technology: (1) graphing with the CALC feature; (2) quadratic formula program; (3) table; and (4) solver. Includes a worksheet for a lab activity on factoring quadratic equations. (KHR)

Describes five types of activities that elementary school teachers can use to help students understand decimals. These activities use money calculations, base-10 blocks, meter sticks, calculators, and problem solving. Specific examples are provided. (MDM)

Describes three approaches teachers can use to help students understand multiplication and division: calculator explorations, problem solving, and discussion topics. Specific examples are provided for primary and upper grades. (MDM)

Describes the graphing calculator as a new graphical approach to standard physics problems. Presents a collision problem to illustrate its use. (JRH)

Annotated are questionnaire responses from 88 state and regional contest supervisors concerning trends in calculator usage and nonusage among 59 represented mathematical contests. Discussed are advantages and disadvantages for specific contest problem types with respect to both pencil-and-paper and calculator methods of solution. (JJK)

Presents a mathematics problem on how a sailor decides the shortest distance between two points by using a calculator. (ASK)

Presents graphing calculator activities that rely on resolving the magnitude and direction form of vectors into their Cartesian components so that they are suitable as applications for vector or trigonometric relationships for years 10-12. (ASK)

This material is a product of a cooperative project of the Cincinnati Public Schools, the Detroit Public Schools, and CEMREL, Incorporated. The Teaching of Problem Solving (TOPS) project began in the 1980-81 school year under CEMREL's contract with the Basic Skills Improvement Office of the United States Department of Education. The approach used…