This video offers an exciting four-part adventure about two teenage sleuths who discover the presence of an alien below New York City. As they try to make contact with the alien, they are confronted with a series of mathematical challenges that test their knowledge of the content strands recommended by the National Council of Teachers of…

This print guide to the "XY Encounter" video offers an exciting four-part adventure about two teenage sleuths who discover the presence of an alien below New York City, and expands upon themes presented in the video. As the students try to make contact with the alien, they are confronted with a series of mathematical challenges that test their…

The purpose of the Idaho Direct Mathematics Assessment (DMA) is to measure Idaho students' mathematical problem-solving skills, including their ability to apply basic skills to problem-solving situations as stated in the Idaho Achievement Standards document. Problem solving is valued as an essential tool for success in a complex, modern world. The…

This report describes a program for improving attitudes towards mathematics and problem solving in order to improve performance in these areas. The targeted population consists of two high school geometry classes. The school is located in a western suburb of a major mid-western city. The problems of negative attitudes towards mathematics and…

Whole numbers written in spiral or triangular patterns with spaces occupied by prime numbers blocked in produces interesting visual patterns. Described is a game based on these patterns that may be played at many different levels. (JP)

Presented is an example of how a child adopted an incorrect method for solution to arithmetic sentences. Methods for detecting and correcting this behavior are discussed. (JP)

An approach to how to expand explorations of determinants is detailed that allows evaluation of the fourth order. The method is built from a close examination of the product terms found in the expansions of second- and third-order determinants. Students are provided with an experience in basic mathematical investigation. (MP)

When problems defy solution, mathematicians can settle for "almost." This branch of mathematics (called computational complexity) encompasses both the number of parts involved in a problem and the intricacy of their interrelatedness. Current research in this area is discussed, considering various computer applications involved. (JN)

Several brief articles are included in this section. "Purple Puzzlers" are challenging problems for algebra students. "Linear Invaders" is a game to reinforce concepts of graphing lines. "The Diagonal Method" is used to prove that the real and natural numbers cannot be put into one-to-one correspondence. (MNS)

Index cards, masking tape, pizza shells, golf tees, and empty soda bottles can be used to make manipulative objects to be used in children's mathematics games. Twenty-two games that provide practice in number drills and problem solving are described, along with instructions for making objects needed for the games. (PP)

Discusses two computer programs ("Billiard Ball" and "Taxman") that foster the development of higher-level thinking skills in children. Indicates that children develop such skills as planning ahead, analyzing, and using models/diagrams in the first program. Includes list of 26 programs with price, source, hardware needed, and…