A game similar to Nim is described. Students in grades three through six have played the game in conjunction with the study of modular arithmetic,and have been able to develop winning strategies. (SD)

Nine problem situations involving the use of random numbers are given. Topics include cooking, hunting, bacteria contamination, waiting lines, ransom walks, and branching. In addition to the problem situation, questions are suggested which can be used to extend the investigations. (LS)

This study investigated the effect of initial instruction on the processes children use to solve basic addition and subtraction verbal problems. Prior to instruction and following a 2-month introductory unit on addition and subtraction, 43 first-grade children were individually tested on verbal problems representing different models of addition…

Problems set in the real world help students see the relevance of mathematics. Topics that provide sources of real problems are discussed, with examples: mazes, packing, and networks. (MNS)

One mathematician's view of real problems is given. Described (with some humor) are magic retail numbers, the highway bypass, the elliptical table, and the senior-class schedule. (MNS)

Two activities are presented. The first involves geometric concepts using the alphabet, while the second is a game to provide practice in finding factors of composite numbers. (MNS)

This section contains brief articles on triangular differences, when one is not equal to one, using calculators to check solutions of quadratic equations, and a county agents' problem. (MNS)

Sometimes the immediate use of an algebraic approach to solve a problem can obscure what is actually happening. The solution to one problem is described both algebraically and through a numerical approach. (MNS)

This book features a collection of 54 decimal number puzzles designed to provide experiences in problem solving and mathematical reasoning for middle and high school students. Each puzzle consists of a sequence of 10 clues about an unknown decimal number. The clues, when revealed one at a time, lead students through deductive reasoning to the…

The derivation of a method to drive the general term of a sequence is presented. The difference sequences and binomial coefficents are used in the derivation. An application of this method is made to solve Polya's problems concerned with dividing space in regions by a given number of planes. (JP)

An investigation concerning the sum of square digits is described to show college mathematics students how mathematicians really work. A computer program is included. (MNS)