An exploratory study was conducted to determine why fourth grade pupils ignored written directions and explanations in mathematics textbooks. Results indicated that many teachers' grading practices discouraged children from reading and thinking through word problems on their own. (CW)

Sixth graders wrote solutions to the word problems in the Metropolitan Achievement Test. Errors were analyzed and classified. At least 52 percent of errors were computational or clerical and could not be attributed to reading difficulties. (SD)

Tables of life expectancy can provide data for use in a great variety of problems related to probability theory. (SD)

Twenty puzzles originally posed by Sam Loyd (1841-1911) are presented. Solutions are provided. (SD)

The focus is upon the introduction of multiplication within the framework of an algorithm program. Analysis of some observations of student solutions to multiplication problems is included. (MN)

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)

An analysis of methods of teaching children to solve verbal arithmetic problems is presented together with transcriptions of interviews in which children solve problems by reference to problem types. (SD)

The relationships between arithmetic, geometric, and harmonic means and the root mean square of two numbers are examined. The problem of generalizing these relationships to three variables is discussed. (SD)

A mathematics project promoting an exploratory approach to mathematical problems as well as an organization and application of mathematical knowledge is described. (JT)

A calculator activity, described as a bingo game, emphasizes speedy calculations as well as problem solving. (JT)

Calculators in school need not cause decline in either practical skill or mathematical understanding. And with the right curriculum materials, they can help bring about major improvements in mathematics education. (Author)

For an entire school year, 24 seventh-grade classes were taught problem-solving strategies; in 14 of these classes the instruction was supplemented by calculators. Mixed findings resulted for both problem solving and calculator use. (MNS)

Described and compared are two approaches for evaluating student problem solving skills at the elementary school level. One model was developed by Charles and Lester; the other model was developed by Woods. (RH)

Transferring the skills learned in mathematics to other contexts is a problem for many students. A new heuristic model of mathematics instruction is proposed. The model would guard against the adoption of mistaken assumptions about mathematics and foster the learning of problem-solving strategies. (VM)

This activity is designed to help students recognize and extend rectangular patterns and to use patterning to formulate rules for "nth" cases. Three worksheets are included. (MNS)