The following ideas are shared: (1) a low-stress subtraction algorithm that eliminates the traditional borrowing process, and (2) an approach to graphing circular functions that looks at the process of modifying simple functions as a series of shifting, sliding, and stretching adjustments, with its biggest advantage viewed as its generality. (MP)

Outlines two experiments by which several different mathematical topics can be integrated into the unifying theme of oscillating pendulums, as part of a secondary school Algebra II and Trigonometry class. (CS)

Some of the changes in mathematics curriculum and pedagogy suggested by the calculator are described and discussed. (MK)

Argues that proving something begins with an assumption and proceeds logically to a conclusion, thus convincing by offering arguments. Describes some pitfalls involved in proving through examining several case histories. Offers suggestions for teaching the proof process. For example, sometimes an extreme example or counterexample will do more to…

Describes a classroom inquiry into expressing the number pi as the limit of a sequence of different ratios using relationships among coins and the radius of an inscribed circle. (KHR)

Students can learn to make algebra, trigonometry, and geometry work for them by using matrices to rotate figures on the graphics screen of a graphing calculator. Includes a software program, TRNSFORM, for the TI-81 graphing calculator which can draw and rotate a triangle. (MKR)

The most important objective when starting a class on a previously unknown branch of mathematics is to ensure that the students enjoy and appreciate the significance of this new aspect of mathematics. Inundating them with a flood of technical terms and definitions without any reality experience is a fast way to send the students out of class…

Several formulae for the inradius of various types of triangles are derived. Properties of the inradius and trigonometric functions of the angles of Pythagorean and Heronian triangles are also presented. The entire presentation is elementary and suitable for classes in geometry, precalculus mathematics and number theory.

Non-linear second-order differential equations whose solutions are the elliptic functions "sn"("t, k"), "cn"("t, k") and "dn"("t, k") are investigated. Using "Mathematica", high precision numerical solutions are generated. From these data, Fourier coefficients are determined yielding approximate formulas for these non-elementary functions that are…

Constructing model hot air balloons is an activity that captures the imaginations of students, enabling teachers to present required content to minds that are open to receive it. Additionally, there are few activities that lend themselves to integrating so much content across subject areas. In this article, the authors describe how they have…

This course syllabus is for five 18-week courses in the Metal Fabrication Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC): (1) metal fabrication I; (2) blueprint reading and sketching; (3) applied layout tech I; (4) metal fabrication II; and (5) applied layout tech II. Each syllabus contains some or all of the following: (1) course…

The use of paper folding to study properties of geometric solids is discussed. (SD)

This workbook is designed to be used as a review at the end of a college level course in algebra and trigonometry. Four review sheets containing 117 problems provide hints and detailed solutions for each problem. (YP)