A case is presented for the importance of focusing on: (1) average ability students; (2) substantive mathematical content; (3) real problems; and (4) realistic settings and solution procedures for research in problem solving. Suggestions for ways to modify existing applied problem solving materials are given. (MP)

A new program of instruction for freshmen high school students in general mathematics classes is described. (MP)

This paper describes an approach to the problem of teaching first-year tertiary level mathematics students who have widely varying levels of achievement and ability in mathematics. The evaluation of some aspects of the proposed solution to the problem is based on a semantic differential and a Likert-type questionnaire. (Author/MK)

Forty-five experienced teachers from secondary, middle, primary, and special schools took part in a project focused on the group of children in their middle years of schooling (ages 9-13) who experience difficulty in the learning of mathematics. This report is a summary of their findings. (MK)

Suggestions are given for using a "Mobius Strip" poster. The experiences of one teacher using such a poster are related. (MK)

Comments on the results of the second mathematics assessment done by National Assessment of Educational Progress by the president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. A "critical need for attention to higher-order cognitive skills" is pointed out. (MK) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document:…

The author shows how the teaching of mathematics may be adapted so that it is "humanized." It is asserted that the standard mathematics program "...appeals to the intellect, but attaches no value to other human qualities such as emotions and ethical character." (MP)

The use of clocks in instruction in the elementary school classroom is reviewed. The use of nonstandard units of measure and conceptualizing the idea of time duration are two of the areas investigated. (MP)

Presented is a speech made by Shirley Hill, president, at the 58th Annual Meeting of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in which she presents the organization's recommendations for the direction of school mathematics in the 1980s (called "An Agenda for Action"). (Author/TG)

This article briefly discusses changes taking place in the People's Republic of China with respect to mathematics curricula, examinations, olympiad contests, and other education-related activities, such as productive labor obligations of students and teachers. (Author/TG)

A proposal to shift to a conceptually oriented curriculum using the calculator as an instructional tool and to eliminate the teaching of complex computations in elementary school is presented. (MP)

The programs provided for mathematically gifted students are divided into two categories, labeled enrichment and acceleration. These two types of programs are discussed and the basic forms of instructional patterns are presented, along with the pros and cons associated with each. (MP)

The development of the new mathematics curriculum of the late 1950s is examined in light of current calls for changes in the instructional program. Thoughtful, imaginative reform that offers radically new models of approach to teaching mathematics is called for. (MP)

A study of student attitudes towards computers in a mathematics class found significantly positive relationships between such use and their attitudes towards mathematics, the instructional setting, achievement in mathematics and programing, and previous programing experience. No significant relationship between students' intelligence and attitudes…

An example of an unrealistic "real world" problem from the National Assessment of Educational Progress highlights a comparison of school and "folk" mathematics. The failures of typical problems taught in school and some suggested remedies are featured. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document:…