Investigates issues of mathematics instruction of problems in blocks. Discusses the best way to construct mathematical problems with connections to one another as parts of a coherent whole and how to reflect on the types of connections that can arise between them. (Author/KHR)

This study analyzed the processes used by students when engaged in modeling activities and examined how students' abilities to solve modeling problems changed over time. Two student populations, one experimental and one control group, participated in the study. To examine students' modeling processes, the experimental group participated in an…

Math-education reformers encourage the incorporation of mathematical modeling activities into K-12 curricula. Many of the purported educational benefits derive from the authenticity of the activities-how well they reflect the everyday and occupational mathematical practices of adults. But a paucity in the literature of observational descriptions…

The relationship between transformation problem performance and Guilford Structure of Intellect (SI) abilities is explored. During two group sessions 42 females and 35 males, age 18-39, were administered 12 Guilford SI tests exemplifying all five symbolic content (numeric) operations, and three contents in the divergent production area. Logical…

Models relating individual and group problem solving solution times under the condition of limited time (time limit censoring) are presented. Maximum likelihood estimation of parameters and a goodness of fit test are presented. (Author/JKS)

A problem illustrating how physics and mathematics complement one another when analyzing problems of the physical world is described. (JT)

Problems involving the use of diagrams to depict plangers'' (in which lines cross a specified number of times) are discussed. (LS)

Provides a solution method for the problem of finding an optimal traffic network in its simplest form where there are no congestion costs. (Author)

Discusses steps to be executed when studying physiological systems with theoretical mathematical models. Steps considered include: (1) definition of goals; (2) model formulation; (3) mathematical description; (4) qualitative evaluation; (5) parameter estimation; (6) model fitting; (7) evaluation; and (8) design of new experiments based on the…

The application of Bezier polynomials in computer graphics to generate curves and surfaces is presented. The use of these curves to aid in the design of automobiles is featured, and a BASIC program designed to draw a simple caricature is included. (MP)

Methods of formulating mathematical models are discussed and problems, insights, and solutions are given. (PK)

Illustrates how mathematicians work and do mathematical research through the use of a puzzle. Demonstrates how general rules, then theorems develop from special cases. This approach may be used as a research project in high school classrooms or math club settings with the teacher helping to formulate questions, set goals, and avoid becoming…

Proposes a system to help at-risk students develop problem solving skills. Provides some teaching methods and evaluation ideas. (KHR)

Presents activities designed to engage students in an experiential and theoretical application of problems in precalculus and to study geometry, coordinate systems, rates, linear applications, and the concept of function. Illustrates problem situations and includes student worksheets and a teacher's guide. (KHR)