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)

A calculus activity is presented which is designed to allow students to operate as mathematicians. (MK)

The author discusses the use of calculators in calculus classes and difficulties caused by roundoff errors. References for advanced follow-up topics are given. (Author/MK)

Most presentations of mathematical ideas are suggested as being backwards from the way they evolved. Two alternatives are discussed, both emphasizing mathematical processes. (MP)

A course of mathematical methods for students of different degree programs is outlined. An approach to the teaching of the course is described which allows continuity between sections of apparently different material. (MP)

A brief overview is presented of the use of soap bubbles to solve minimal problems. A new class of problems that can be solved with soap film models is presented. (MP)

A transformation technique for graphing is described. (DT)

Examines the possibility that at times imagery might be a disadvantage in certain tasks. For example, the notion of a persistent image may be so vivid as to actually block other creative thought. Describes one calculus student's images supporting high levels of mathematical functioning which occasionally became so powerful as to obscure more than…

Suggests that the cross product of two vectors can be more easily and accurately explained by starting from the perspective of dyadics because then the concept of vector multiplication has a simple geometrical picture that encompasses both the dot and cross products in any number of dimensions in terms of orthogonal unit vector components. (AIM)

Examines the performance of two groups of students in traditionally-taught second semester calculus: students who took reform first semester calculus and students who took traditionally-taught first semester calculus. Identifies and explores the issues that reform students faced as they transitioned into traditionally-taught second semester…

Presents a semiotic analysis of the potential of computer algebra systems (CAS) for enabling mathematical activity on a conceptual level higher than usual. Illustrates examples of theoretical points from a development project in the context of a first year university course in calculus. Discusses how CAS may be used in a didactical analysis and in…

Examines the views of proof held by university-level mathematics students and teachers. Develops a framework for characterizing people's views of proof based on a distinction between public and private aspects of proof and the key ideas that link these two domains. (Author/KHR)

Describes how the cubic formula can be presented easily at the precalculus level, shows how to verify that the formula is correct, and identifies when it is profitable to use. (KHR)

Examines the writing of two groups of students in a college-level calculus class to identify criteria that discriminate successful versus unsuccessful writers in mathematics. Discusses results from the mathematics writers' checklist and methods for its use as an instructional and assessment tool in the classroom. (Author/KHR)

Reported are some of the highlights of a panel discussion held at the Joint Annual Meeting of the Mathematical Association of America in January 1987. Discussed are precalculus courses, challenging better students, calculus workshops, courses with projects, career awareness, coop programs, remedial programs, recruitment, seminar courses, and…