The subjects were 47 first-grade children from three classrooms in a Lexington, Kentucky public school. Results indicate that the position of the unknown set in a verbal problem substantially determines whether or not a problem can be modeled successfully by children of this age. (MP)

Whether hierarchical ordering among fraction identification problems reflects the replacement of simple rules by complex rules was investigated. Latent class techniques revealed that children applied rules that were adequate for simple problems but had to be replaced to solve more complex problems. (Author/GK)

An approach to using the method of least squares, a scheme for computing the best-fitting line directly from a set of points, is detailed. The material first looks at fitting a numerical value to a set of numbers. This provides tools for solving the line-fitting problem. (MP)

Some easily graded measures of problem-solving processes are introduced, and the impact of a month-long intensive problem-solving course on a selected group of college freshmen and sophomores is demonstrated. The measures are thought to have shown themselves to be both reliable and informative. (MP)

A computer simulation of the Buffon Needle Problem for estimating the value of pi is discussed. (MP)

A distinction is made between estimation and checking, and an analysis of standard errors made on calculators when pupils are checking answers is given. (MP)

This study investigated students' understanding of two mathematical relations as measured by conservation tasks. Thirty students were interviewed, half each at the middle and high school levels. The results suggest that the ability to conserve equation or function varies among pupils of different ages, sexes, and mathematical backgrounds. (MP)

A technique is illustrated for solving relative motion problems using a maneuvering board and vector algebra. The technique can be used to visually illustrate properties of vector algebra in a non-theoretical context. (MP)

The purpose of this study was to examine tendencies for students to be more successful in solving verbal problems based on situations for which they possess measured interest. (MP)

Five calculator activities are described that are designed to explore ordered operations. Suggestions are given on mathematical objectives, strategies for solving, and possible extensions or follow-up activities. (MP)

Problems are discussed in which addition facts are presented using words instead of numbers. The letters are then replaced by numbers that will make the addition problems correct. (MP)

The author examines the trend, and some of the interdisciplinary research supporting it, toward the development of problem solving competency, rather than content-based skills, as the central concern in mathematics education. (SJL)

Considered are the main elements of computational chemistry problems and how these elements can be used to formulate the problems mathematically. Techniques that are useful in devising an appropriate solution are also considered. (Author/TG)