Describes a beginning algebra course that places stronger emphasis on learning to solve problems and introduces topics using real world applications. Students learn estimating, graphing, and algebraic algorithms for the purpose of solving problems. Indicates that applications motivate students by appearing to be a more relevant topic as well as…

Investigates the effects of two context variables on the performance of seventh-grade students on a qualitative and numerical proportional reasoning test. Explores the nature of the relationships between rational number skills, qualitative reasoning about ratios, and numerical proportional reasoning. (Author/YP)

This bibliography lists and annotates 10 references on gifted education, including journal articles and book sections. The references deal with curriculum content, creativity, moral reasoning, mathematical problem solving, cooperative learning, minority students' standardized test scores, and minority students' under-representation in gifted…

Research relevant to improving instruction for learning disabled students with mathematical problem solving deficits is reviewed. Using a cognitive-metacognitive framework, techniques for teaching both specific and comprehensive mathematical problem solving strategies as well as techniques to enhance strategy generalization are presented.…

A Holt, Michigan, high school's recent shift toward conceptual understanding and demonstrated performance inspired one math teacher to develop a panel performance-assessment process. For their midsemester and semester exams, students in algebra II and precalculus discuss before a panel of judges the solutions to complex problems. Panel assessment…

Identified factors associated with learning mathematics in groups with computers. Subjects were 8 groups of 6 students, ages 9 to 12 years, using LOGO. Analysis of learning measures indicated positive gains resulting from groupwork, with no differences across gender or ability; analysis of process factors pointed to explanations for the differing…

Describes data analysis activities for grades three through six using unshelled peanuts. Includes two reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Investigation of (n=101) 17- to 18-year-old students' responses to a task relating to Boyle's Law for gases found that 34% to 38% of students did not understand the concepts of volume and mass, respectively, of a gas under the given circumstances. (Author/MKR)

Describes some mathematical investigations of the necktie which includes applications of geometry, statistics, data analysis, sampling, probability, symmetry, proportion, problem solving, and business. (MKR)

Observation and interviews of (n=90) second and third graders' mathematical problem-solving behavior found that the children readily attempted unfamiliar problems and used systematic solution processes. Found no significant gender differences. (24 references) (Author/MKR)

Provides a method of solving vector and force problems that is less complicated for the learner. Gives several examples concerning projectiles and inclined planes. (MVL)

Utilizes the problem of determining the number of different ice cream cones and cups that can be made from a choice of 31 flavors to investigate the concepts of combinations and permutations. Provides a set of six related problems with their answers. (MDH)

Why children under 10 years do not use their mathematics knowledge to build a shortcut strategy to solve inversion problems was studied with 88 elementary school students in Munich (Germany). Most could use the shortcut but did so only when it did not compete with a more familiar strategy. (SLD)

Mathematics portfolios need not be limited to problem-solving efforts. When California algebra teacher asked students what portfolio contents would show their effort and learning, they suggested daily notes, personal budget and lottery projects, scale drawing, their best and worst tests, weekly problems, daily class notes, and homework. Students…

Describes the use of a graphic organizer with fifth graders to teach problem-solving skills and to teach reading skills helpful for comprehending mathematics materials. Suggests that the strategy was effective with students of all ability levels. (SR)