A discussion is given of calculators in the classroom. Opinions and recommendations of various groups are incorporated. (MK)

Examples of ratio and proportion problems from engineering, science, business, and catering are presented and solved. The goal is to illustrate how certain basic processes are used across a wide spectrum of occupations. (MK)

For the mathematics experience to be liberating, the curriculum must share how and why mathematical knowledge is developed, with special emphasis on its grounding in belief, intuition and subjectivity, and facilitate our understanding of the world in which we live and create and the beliefs we act upon. (Author)

Teachers in all areas often get ideas that are important and worth testing. Few go so far as to do a research study, but here is one who did--and tells how it turned out. (Editor)

Focuses on mathematics multicultural education as a mobilizing force for the development of theory and research which offers a countervision to the way that schooling is usually conducted. Reviews literature that connects multicultural education with mathematics and analyzes how teachers view multicultural education and the impact of multicultural…

Presents a perspective on the nature of the use of proofs in high school geometry. Compares three currently used approaches to the geometry curriculum: (1) traditional geometry with no explanation of the axiomatic system; (2) hands-on geometry with no proofs until the end of the course; and (3) experimental geometry with no proofs. (DDR)

Reports a case study set in the context of a "function" curriculum approach to introductory algebra. The expectation that the teacher's actions would reflect the philosophy implied in the curriculum was not supported. The teacher gave priority to curriculum content coverage, emphasized methods and procedures, and adopted teacher-focused…

Demonstrates the capabilities of graphics calculators in assisting with a simple mathematical investigation. Subjects covered include Direct Calculation, Tables, Graphing Particular Cases, Logarithms, Parametric Solutions, and Three-Dimensional Plots and Contours. The question posed for investigation with the calculator is, for what pairs of…

This is the fourth in a series of articles introducing the recently initiated Activities Integrating Math and Science (AIMS) program for the development of a pattern-based mathematics/science curriculum. Discusses proportional relationships, proportional reasoning at the manipulative level, proportional reasoning expressed as written language,…

Challenges abstract mathematics requirements in U.S. high schools. Refutes various philosophical and psychological assumptions underlying math instruction, particularly the correlation between simple numbers and the physical world, the math/logical thinking connection, and frequency of use arguments. Suggests that high schools require only one…

The study of statistics has been examined in terms of content, readiness to learn, pedagogy, and assessment. Presents a proposal of how a cognitive apprenticeship model can be developed from the research to build more effective instructional and assessment methods for statistics education. Contains 72 references. (Author/MKR)

Analyzes how each of the three opponents could win on the game show "Jeopardy" regardless of their relative standing when they enter the Final Jeopardy round. Analyzes optimal strategies for each contestant using probabilities. (MKR)

Presents remarks adapted from the Presidential Address at the 72nd Annual Meeting of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) in Indianapolis, April 1994. Discusses three goals of NCTM: to foster excellence, to promote professional excellence, and to strengthen NCTM's leadership. Also discusses NCTM publications and future…

Lists proven approaches to enhance the teaching of mathematics. Ideas include (1) providing manipulative experiences; (2) planning enrichment activities; (3) reviewing constantly; (4) encouraging the use of calculators and computers; (5) striving to use encouragement instead of praise solely; (6) promoting creative thinking; and (7) minimizing the…

Challenges the concept of mathematical certainty and questions whether it is a useful concept for elementary and secondary mathematics curriculum. Encourages teachers to bring this issue into the classroom and ask students to think about it critically. (HB)