This guide contains classroom-tested problems designed to introduce and reinforce mathematical concepts in a quick, "fun" way. Activities emphasize the logic and reasoning skills needed to build a strong foundation in mathematics. The problems are thinking activities and require only upper elementary level mathematics skills. Activities are…

The Nevada Mathematics Standards provide the framework for a comprehensive K-12 mathematics program and guide curriculum, instruction, and assessment as well as other policies and practices that affect student learning. The standards are intended to serve as a foundation for teachers and curriculum specialists as they create curriculum and adopt…

Teachers should consider using strategy games to introduce students to problem solving in an enjoyable way. Advantages of games, criteria, games and variations to use, and classroom organization are each discussed. (MNS)

This study investigated the effects of specific criteria for marking a test on its reliability and validity. Eight algebra word problems were administered to grade 10 students. The objectivity of scoring criteria improved the reliability of the test, but did not affect its validity. (MNS)

Visualization is an effective technique for determining exactly what students must do to solve a mathematics problem. Pictures and charts can be used to help children understand which mathematics facts are present and which are missing--an important step toward problem solving. (PP)

Classroom discussion can be valuable in college math and can be enhanced by: adding time in the agenda by not repeating textbook material; welcoming classroom participation; using assignments and exams for in-class interaction; and integrating material from different parts of the course, or different courses, into classroom discussion. (MSE)

The easy availability and popularity of newspapers enhance their use in the classroom. The material presented is grouped under: (1) "Comparative Shopping and Estimation Activities"; (2) "Buying and Furnishing Houses"; and (3) "Graphing, Probability, and Statistics." Teachers are encouraged to consider such applications in involving pupils in…

It is suggested that there are three levels of difficulty posing barriers to successful problem-solving performance: (1) entry into the problem; (2) basic skills; and (3) general cognitive skills. The levels are described in some detail and suggestions for instructional methods are given. (MP)

A problem involving the search for an equivalence class of triangles is viewed to provide several exciting and satisfying moments of insight. After solving the original problem, there is a brief discussion of a slight variation and several notes regarding related theorems and ideas. References for additional exploration are provided. (MP)

The design of a computer program to efficiently generate prime numbers is discussed. Programs for many different brands of home computers are listed, with suggestions of ways the programs can be speeded up. It is noted everyone seems to have a favorite program, but that every program can be improved. (MP)

Eleven questions, primarily dealing with the structure of the human body, are presented. In addition to a question on calculation of age in days, hours, minutes, and seconds, there are problems on the muscles, and the respiratory, circulatory, and skeletal systems. Answers to general questions are provided. (MP)

Presented is a method for finding two triangles that have five pairs of congruent parts, yet fail to be congruent. The solution is thought to involve some creative insights that should challenge both the teacher and students to recall and analyze all the congruence axioms and theorems. (MP)

Four specific problems are presented, discussed, and extended to illustrate how diverse instructional strategies, materials, and resources can be used to develop problem-solving skills. (MP)

A description of a planet in the shape of a cube where everything was built from squares and parts of squares is presented. The story is used as a background for several paper folding exercises that explore several geometric shapes. Solutions to the problems stated are included. (MP)