Definitions of estimating and approximating are given and areas where these skills are used (such as practical situations, problem solving, and measurement) are discussed. Nine activities which range from second to twelfth-grade level are suggested. (MK)

Brainstorming is suggested as one approach to problem solving. Generating possibilities stimulates creative and independent thinking and can facilitate problem solving in many situations. (MP)

A class's struggle with the computer solution of a nontrivial problem is related. The use of algorithms allowed a trial-and-error approach.

Two posters are given containing sets of problems that are designed to stimulate interest in problem solving. Suggestions are given for the use of the posters. (MP)

Analyzes the responses of pre- and in-service teachers (N=136) to a series of graded questions about average. Presents information in graphical form requiring respondents to compare datasets induced responses in iconic and concrete symbolic modes, demonstrating multimodal functioning. (Author/ASK)

Discusses an exploratory study that examines student interpretation of remainders in division as applied to word problems in a restrictive school setting and in a real-world, out-of-school setting. Concludes that students lack the ability to map computational results to the real-world context. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Presents a collection of problem-solving tasks focusing on mathematical situations that often have surprising results. This hands-on investigation invokes problem solving and reasoning, requires communication skills, and encourages identification of connections among various mathematical concepts. A Heads-or-Tails Toss encourages children to…

Describes an NCTM Standards-based high school mathematics curriculum that involves application, technology, cooperative learning, and open-ended problem solving and compares student attitudes and achievement with a traditional class. Results indicate significant attitude improvement in the mathematical confidence of students in the experimental…

Explores a variety of approaches to solving one geometry problem illustrating the work of teachers, the flow of their ideas, and the diverse areas of mathematics they applied. (KHR)

Investigates the calculation strategies used by female students in Grades Two and Three to solve word problems. Findings indicate that students used three main intuitive models: (1) direct counting; (2) repeated addition; and (3) multiplicative operation. Concludes that children acquire an expanding repertoire of intuitive models and the model…

Examines classroom situations which allow for learning of rules of mathematical reasoning. Findings indicate that debate about mathematical rules can be generated amongst students ages 12 to 13 through the study of a mathematical problem. Argues that it is necessary for the teacher to conclude the debate. Contains 10 references. (JRH)

Summarizes examples of assessment strategies put forth by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in "Assessment Standards for School Mathematics." Strategies include teacher observation of student behavior, problem-solving projects that involve one or more students, and having students write responses to math problems. (CR)

Presents a problem involving fractions for discussing and sharing of student responses to the problem at a later date. (KHR)

Describes the different ways in which two pioneering Australian teachers adapted their teaching to use computer algebra systems (CAS). One teacher used CAS with the primary goal of increasing understanding but restricted student use. The other teacher adopted CAS as an extra technique for solving standard problems, emphasizing time saving routines…

Describes a group project concerning the Calendar Problem 9 in the January, 1993 Issue of this journal, students' methods for solving the problem, and an extension of the problem. (KHR)