The idea of "complete permutations" of n distinct objects is explored in order to investigate an application of the concept that arises in Rex Stout's mystery novel, Too Many Cooks. (MN)

A hypothetical classroom discussion is used to present concepts and problems students can master. Three computer programs are listed for binomial probabilities. (MNS)

This book contains a set of versatile enrichment exercises that cover a very broad range of mathematical topics and applications in algebra from the Moebius strip to the googol. Several criteria have been used in developing the activities and selecting the topics that are included. All of them bear heavily and equally on concerns for curriculum…

The social science finding that two-thirds of a population of successful males are first-born sons provided the motivation for a problem solved by a 12th grade honors class. The class proved that the probability of choosing a first-born son from a male population is about two-thirds. (JP)

The uses of random number generators are illustrated in three ways: (1) the solution of a probability problem using a coin; (2) the solution of a system of simultaneous linear equations using a die; and (3) the approximation of pi using darts. (MP)

The use of the randomized response technique as a tool of obtaining answers to sensitive questions is illustrated. Directions for two classroom experiments are included. (MP)

A sophomore-level course in applications of mathematics was designed to introduce students to the diversity of situations in which mathematical models are used. The course precedes the study of the calculus, and is composed of a sequence of modules. A problem-solving approach is used. (SD)

The explicit, experimental introduction of a series of logical inconsistencies is described and recommended as a means of disrupting the faulty logic and, thereby, enhancing the use of more appropriate probabilistic reasoning by graduate students enrolled in an introductory inferential statistics course. (14 references) (JJK)

The What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) reviewed interventions to promote middle school students' math knowledge and skills. Because there is some variation in how school districts organize middle school, we considered curricula aimed at students in grades 6 through 9, covering one or more of the following content areas: numbers and operations,…

Two experiments explored whether children's correct answers to counter factual and future hypothetical questions were based on an understanding of possibilities. Children played a game in which a toy mouse could run down either 1 of 2 slides. Children found it difficult to mark physically both possible outcomes, compared to reporting a single…

This book contains a classroom-tested approach to the teaching of problem solving to all students in Grades 4-6, regardless of ability. Information on problem solving in general is provided, then mathematical problems on logic, whole numbers, number theory, fractions, decimals, geometry, ratio, proportion, percent, probability, sets, and…

Students were given the problem: Given a deck of cards in a certain order, after how many shuffles will it return to its original order? They worked with small decks of cards to develop a general formula, but were unhappy with the results. (SD)

Four problems in which elementary mathematics can be used in constructing models are described. (SD)

The similarity between two apparently dissimilar problems is explored. Pascal's triangle is involved. (SD)

Addressed to both librarians and systems analysts, this book attempts to apply the analytic methods of operations research and systems analysis to the operating problems of the library. The first part of the book discusses theoretical models with emphasis on the pattern of book use, on its change with time and on the problem of estimating and…