The study sought to determine the relationship between problem solving ability and problem presentation stimuli of textbook (T), student generated (S), pictorial (P), textbook and pictorial (TP), and student generated and pictorial (SP). Ten problems for each stimulus were presented to ninth grade algebra students randomly assigned within IQ…

The problem solving performance of 24 learning disabled and 24 non-disabled second and fourth grade children was investigated using embedded irrelevant linguistic and numerical information within addition word problems. Irrelevant numerical information but not irrelevant linguistic information affected performance of all groups; however, LD…

Graphing skills are growing in importance in our information society, presenting facts and concepts in newspapers, magazines, and on television. Graphs incorporated into teaching develop children's problem-solving skills. Ways to use graphs in the classroom are discussed, and examples are given. (MT)

Researchers suggest that teachers should place greater emphasis on the qualitative understanding of the procedures involved in mathematical problem-solving. Administrators can advise teachers to encourage students and show them how to be more thorough in analyzing problems. (MLF)

Computer algebra system (CAS) calculators are becoming increasingly common in schools and universities. While they offer quite sophisticated mathematical capability to teachers and students, it is not clear at present how they may best be employed. In particular their integration into students' learning and problem-solving remains an issue. In…

The main objective of this study is to investigate the role of four different modes of representation in mathematical problem solving (MPS), and more specifically to develop a model, which provides information about the effects of these representations in the solution procedures of one-step problems of additive structures. Data were collected from…

In this workshop, we will continue to reflect on a models and modeling perspective to understand how students and teachers learn and reason about real life situations encountered in a mathematics and science classroom. We will discuss the idea of a model as a conceptual system that is expressed by using external representational media, and that is…

The presentation of physics content knowledge in conjunction with the lack of examples in solving problems leads high school students to struggle with mathematical problem solving in physics courses. This paper explains the importance and necessity of having mathematical courses for all high school students. (YDS)

The present paper aims to propose a theoretical reflection in order to overcome a strong tradition in psychology concerning the analysis of cognition and affectivity as dichotomic processes explaining human behaviours. A general theory of the human subject is presented to discussion, followed by the proposition of a new unit of analysis for the…

Metacognition has been accorded a role in both mathematical problem solving and in the learning of mathematics. There has been consistent advocacy of the need for the promotion of metacognitive activity in both domains. Such advocacy can only be effective if the advocated process is well understood. This paper has three goals: to set out a…

The author provides an example of obtaining the correct answer to a problem through a so-called nonsense solution. The conditions under which this incorrect method will yield a correct solution are examined. (JP)

A brief history of the development of our present day Gregorian calendar is given. Methods are then given, based on congruences, to determine such things as the week-day for any given date and the date for Easter in any year. (LS)

A discussion of the use of mathematics problems containing erroneous statements and the use of mutual consultation by students on the solution of mathematics problems. Critical questioning ability of students is enhanced through the utilization of both these procedures, according to the author. (JG)

An investigative activity dealing with where to pitch a tent at a campsite is described. (MNS)