A problem-solving approach involving systematic experimentation, one of the most-used problem-solving strategies, is advocated since it is useful beyond mathematics problems. Examples of its use are given, with two problems explored and four others noted. (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)

Descriptions are given of how groups aged 7, 10, and 13 tackled the problem of how many squares are on a chessboard. Teachers noted that often the less able children were the ones with ideas, whereas the able ones became impatient and were unwilling to go on trying. (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)

Since early childhood is a critical time to build a readiness for problem solving, 12 specific activities, with problems, are suggested. (MNS)

Working with his daughter and her friend on a problem-solving task gave Graham Jones the opportunity to reconsider how best he might help. This document describes how he went about assisting the girls in solving the problem. In assisting, Graham decided to present the girls with a three part lesson, which would lead to the solution. He stresses…

The "Everyday Learning" series has been developed to focus attention on the everyday ways in which children can be supported in their growth and development. It is for all those who are involved in children's development and learning, including people caring for young children in their own or others' homes, such as parents, grandparents…

In extra-curriculum activities, the nature of the instructor-learner relationship differs from that in class. This constellation, if accompanied by a smaller gap between the mathematical skills of tutor and learner, has an impact on motivational aspects and on the choice of contents in these activities: The use of problem questions of competition…

The study was designed to support teachers on designing problem-posing tasks to understand students' mathematical learning. Seven classroom teachers and the researcher collaboratively set up a school-based team participating in an assessment project that assists teachers in implementing assessment integral to instruction. Four categories that the…

The definition-construction process is central to mathematics. The aim of this paper is to propose a few Situations of Definition-Construction (called SDC) and to study them. Our main objectives are to describe the definition-construction process and to design SDC for classroom. A SDC on "discrete straight line" and its mathematical and…

Efforts to develop a mathematics curriculum that meets the needs of a modern society are reflected in reform recommendations across the developed world. A common requirement is for students to understand the calculation procedures they are taught and to develop "number sense". This paper will analyse students' strategies for calculating…

This paper presented various issues about pedagogical and cognitive aspects of problem solving and explored ways to lessen the heavy cognitive load of a problem solving task. It established a problem type schema for students at different levels. It recognizes the role of modern technology as a cognitive tool that promotes learning mathematics with…

Increased attention has been given to issues of assessment in recent years. Teachers of mathematics have been working to change both the way they elicit evidence of their students' mathematical thinking and the way they use that evidence to monitor students' progress and guide instructional decision making. This publication is based on work done…

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 focus of this special issue is mathematics education. All articles were written by graduates of the new masters Degree program in which students earn a Master of Arts degree in Education with a concentration in Mathematics Education at San Francisco State University. Articles include: (1) "Developing Teacher-Leaders in a Masters Degree Program…