This study compared the effectiveness of a diagrammatic and a keyword method of teaching mathematics problem solving to 70 learning-disabled junior high school students. Results indicated no significant difference between problem-solving performance by students taught with different methods. Potential factors explaining inconsistencies between…

Identified are variables affecting performance of algebraic word problems for eighth graders. An appropriate readability level would seem necessary but not sufficient for student success. The structural variables used appeared to be good predictors of both the correct strategies and solving time. (Author/YP)

Discusses the problems American students have learning math. Describes the new learning in mathematics that synthesizes new content and methods that restructure the curriculum in a way that resolves design and quality control problems. Presents examples of effective programs. (JS)

The article discusses the classic problem: "Given an equilateral triangle and a point P inside the triangle, what is the sum of the distances from P to the three sides?" The problem is used to illustrate the generative nature of problem-posing using the heuristic "What happens if...?" (PK)

Four experiments involving 440 college students in the Philippines and United States examined the effects of symbolic knowledge and problem-information context on translating relational statements into mathematical equations. Results indicate that symbolic knowledge is not always easily accessible in contexts that differ from ordinary…

Proposes the use of conceptualization, exploration, and higher-level problem solving in differential equations courses as a replacement for some of the traditional material that can now be delegated to the computer. (MKR)

Describes the Elementary Mathematics Research Model, which furnishes a vehicle for problem solving through real data collection and analysis. (MKR)

Addresses NCTM recommendations regarding nonroutine problem solving. Illustrates general approaches, teacher discourse, and aims of problem solving via three nonroutine problems. Compares expert and novice approaches to problem solving and applies procedures endorsed by Polya regarding problem-solving strategies. Includes nine additional…

Describes the use of the children's book "Geraldine's Blanket" to promote discussion and allow the teacher to assess the children's understanding of area, place value, number sense, fractions, and problem-solving strategies. (MKR)

Presents mathematics activities that give students in grades three through six practice in writing and problem solving by using the setting of a zoo or animal park. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Presents an assessment activity to determine the ability of students to devise a plan for solving a problem and recording their work while solving the problem. Uses the theme of planning and organizing a birthday party. (MKR)

Interviews with in-service elementary teachers (n=32) who were asked to solve multiplicative problems showed that teachers who solved problems relationally reasoned in terms of ratio and proportion concepts, whereas teachers who arrived at correct solutions without the concepts did so using a trial-and-error method. (24 references) (Author/MKR)

Discusses a program in New Zealand to assist high school students who have an aptitude for mathematics. Uses the philosophy of extension and enrichment rather than acceleration and has a teaching emphasis of problem solving and the methodology of the research mathematician. (MKR)

Presents the use of spreadsheets as an alternative method for precalculus students to solve maximum or minimum problems involving surface area and volume. Concludes that students with less technical backgrounds can solve problems normally requiring calculus and suggests sources for additional problems. (MDH)

Ten research-supported instructional components are presented for promoting mathematics achievement in students with learning problems. A curriculum (Strategic Math Series) found to be effective in teaching students with learning problems to acquire and understand basic facts and apply them in problem-solving activities is described. (Author/JDD)