An exploratory problem is presented which involves the identification of all the ways a unit fraction with prime denominator can be written as a sum of two unit fractions. (MN)

The paragraph unit that constitutes an addition or subtraction word problem text is discussed and the logical conditions such problems must fulfill are formulated. An attempt is then made to formulate the semantic conditions which will define well-formed addition and subtraction texts. (MN)

A set of geometric pieces is used to solve problems involving geometry, combinations, division, and money. (JT)

Presents part seven of a continuing presentation of exponential functions. Provided is an extension of the part six discussion, exponential population growth, to world population growth. (SL)

Graphical solutions are illustrated for several algebra problems including finding roots of a quadratic equation, solving mixture and motion word problems, factoring the difference of two squares, and constructing the square root of a positive number. (MN)

The author discusses the use of free-hand drawing, the modified Socratic teaching method, and the differentiation of mathematical language from colloquial usage as techniques which he has found helpful in creating a positive classroom environment for teaching problem solving. (MN)

A restaurant menu is used to apply mathematics to real situations. A variety of mathematical problems, as well as applications to other content areas, is suggested. (JT)

A motivational game providing practice in computing and problem solving is described. (JT)

Assessed J. F. Wohlwill's notion of way-stations in development by investigating developmental interdependencies among children's solutions to three proportionality tasks: a balance beam task, a probability judgment, and a juice-mixing task. (SKC)

This instructional module examines a key function of science and technology: problem solving. It studies the meaning of problem solving, looks at techniques for problem solving, examines case studies that exemplify the problem-solving approach, presents problems for the reader to solve, and provides a student self-quiz. (Author/CT)

Twenty-nine third graders were trained in teacher led direct instruction to use a generalizable strategy to solve four structurally different types of verbal math problems. There was a significant difference between posttest scores of the two training conditions (sequential and random order) due primarily to gains of the students in sequential…

Recommendations from several current writings at the national level for improving mathematics curriculum and instruction are reviewed in this article. Key concerns discussed include problem solving, basic skills, effective teaching skills, public support, and professionalism. (DF)

This study investigated the effect of presentation of a good solution method on poor students' solving generalization problems and the difference between good and poor students' evaluation of a good method. Subjects were fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. Three hints were presented: the suggestion of using a "solve a simpler problem" strategy,…

This paper reports on five students' explorations of structural relationships between problem situations that they worked on over several years as participants in a long-term study. In particular, we describe the case of students who recognized isomorphisms between and among two problem situations and who used particular features of the problems…