The paper discusses the degree of generality or specificity adopted in approaches to strategy instruction. The historical context of the generality-specificity dimension is described and related to the strategy instruction literature in special education, and three frameworks for conceptualization of generality-specificity are presented.…

Interrelationships between problem solving and number sense are discussed. Suggestions are given on helping children to search for a solution process and to reject unreasonable answers. The teacher's role in developing number-sense skills with problem-solving tasks is also discussed. (MNS)

The problem-solving method of teaching and learning is recommended, to provide for the intellectual and artistic needs of all students, including gifted students. The method encourages a diversity of strengths by involving children of many abilities in a shared activity. A third-grade social studies unit illustrates use of the approach. (JDD)

Explores strategies in the situation of a runner trying to evade a tackler on a football field. Enables the student to test intuitive strategies in a familiar situation using simple graphical and numerical methods or direct experimentation. (JRH)

A real problem from the everyday world is presented. Students are asked to estimate the distance between two planes using a photograph taken by a passenger on one of the planes. The process used to solve the problem and possible errors encountered are discussed. (KR)

A real world sample of actual data that students can use to see the application of the Hardy-Weinberg law to a real population is provided. The directions for using a six-step algorithmic procedure to determine Hardy-Weinberg percentages on the data given are described. (KR)

Described is how the crumpling of paper balls exhibits the concept of a topological dimension similar to fractals. The mass of the crumpled paper ball is found to be proportional to its diameter raised to a nonintegral power. (KR)

An exercise which relates particle scattering and the calculation of cross-sections to answer the following question--"Do you get wetter by walking or running through the rain?"--is described. The calculations used to answer the question are provided. (KR)

Describes how a classroom "legislative forum" can help students develop critical thinking, writing, and speaking skills, and foster civic consciousness. (PRA)

Discusses the use of Calvin & Hobbes comic strips to point out steps in the Big6 information problem-solving process. Students can see what Calvin is doing wrong and then explain how to improve the process. (LRW)

A systematic approach to teaching software provides instructional precision and maximum learning support, best suited for novices. A minimalist approach focused on context and student experience enables advanced learners to examine problem-solving processes and apply concepts to real-world problems. (SK)

Discusses and presents examples of alternative styles of transmitting mathematical knowledge at the tertiary level, with a view to promoting debate on the issue. Emphasizes processes rather than skills, and considers problem solving and peer tutoring. (Author/ASK)

Describes the results of part of a study into mathematical problem solving in secondary schools. Concludes that positive results were achieved, in part, as a consequence of the time that was spent in problem-solving lessons which allowed students to practice reading and working with word problems and working on basic material, particularly…

A study explored the problem solving abilities of 15 children (ages 3-6). A medical problem with a known solution was presented in the form of a children's story. Results showed that after reading the story, four suggested the correct solution. Other non-practical, but creative solutions were also suggested. (Contains seven references.) (CR)

Recommends that teachers wishing to develop the problem-solving expertise of students make concentrated and sustained efforts to develop students' knowledge base, skill base, resource base, strategy-experience base, and behavioral base. Application in a General Physics course resulted in improved problem solving performance which is partially…