Preschool children's problem solving processes are investigated in both direct and indirect ways. Direct investigations focus on substantive and methodological issues related to how children solve a few well defined puzzles, such as the Tower of Hanoi and the Tangram. Indirect investigations deal with related issues: U-shaped (or non-monotone)…

Designed for the student who has completed the geometry series in the Quinmester Program, this guidebook on minimum course content provides an investigation of challenging mathematical activities which are not usually developed in other mathematics courses. The content includes brainteasers, puzzles, and game theory. Overall course objectives are…

Learning activities based on a geometrical puzzle that consists of rearranging triangles and trapezoids are used to teach concepts involving area. (MP)

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)

This article discusses three solutions to the "Tower of Hanoi" problem offered by students in a mathematics content course for prospective elementary school teachers. The course uses standards-based pedagogy and teaching via problem solving. Within this work, we consider the growth supported by collaboration at both the students' level…

This booklet is a collection of 45 problems that have appeared in the Problem Department of the journal "School Science and Mathematics." The booklet is divided into four parts. The first part presents 20 cryptarithms, puzzles in which letters or symbols are substituted for the digits in an arithmetical calculation, that require knowledge of…

This booklet is a collection of puzzles, investigations, and games. They are designed to be used with large objects such as tins or stones and diagrams marked on the ground. The children are to be encouraged to use an experimental, trial-and-error approach at first, and then develop methods of solution. (MNS)

This booklet is a collection of puzzles, games, and investigations. All that children need are some stones or shells, on some of which they must write numerals. For playing with the whole class, the game or puzzles may be marked out on the floor or in sand; in that case, larger objects such as small rocks and empty tins may be used. Children are…

Based on the history of mathematics, these materials have been planned to enrich the teaching of mathematics in grades four, five, and six. Puzzles and games are based on stories about topics such as famous mathematicians, numerals of ancient peoples, and numerology. The sheets are arranged by grade level and are designed for easy duplication.…

The authors describe a series of magic tricks based on computation which they use in elementary and secondary school mathematics classes to motivate and challenge students. (SD)

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

Two activities that provide motivation for drill problem-solving work are described. Solutions to problems are associated with coded letter puzzles which provide instant feedback as well as motivational interest. (JP)

Included are 13 enrichment activities for gifted elementary school students in the subjects of mathematics, classroom seating arrangements, logic, language arts, and science. (CJ)

Described are the variations found between the western and African versions of the same logic puzzle. It is demonstrated that mathematical ideas are of concern in traditional non-Western cultures as well as in the West. (KR)

Describes an exhibit containing four basic demonstrations relating to center of gravity and rotational equilibrium. The demonstrations involve (1) the stack of bricks, (2) the double cone, (3) the spool roller, and (4) the platform balance. (MDH)