Describes how to get equations for parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas from conic sections. Provides diagrams both in perspective and in cross-section for each case. (YP)

Described is an astronomy lesson designed to explore the relationship between the angle of the sun, the position of the north star, and the horizon line of a local area. Activities for teaching protractor fundamentals are included. (CW)

Proposes a new geometry curriculum for motivating middle school students. Discusses the treatment of geometry including visual justifications of geometric phenomena, examination of the properties of various common geometric figures, use of art and architecture, and inspection of geometric transformations. Eleven references are listed. (YP)

Discusses geometric construction problems. Presents four ways to construct a regular octagon using different conditions. Provides drawings showing the constructions. (YP)

Shows a series of Euclidean equations using the Euclidean algorithm to get the greatest common divisor of two integers. Describes the use of the equations to generate a series of circles. Discusses computer generation of Euclidean circles and provides a BASIC program. (YP)

Describes a unit in which students design a space station. Provided are a timetable for the unit, requirements for space-station manufacturing, and an outline of the unit. Lists nine references. (YP)

Introduces four activities on forming rectangles according to specific directions. Critical reading, experimentation, logical reasoning, and validation of given directions are necessary for accuracy. Provides objectives, directions, extensions, answers, and a worksheet for each activity. (YP)

Secondary geometry students were tested for van Hiele level of thinking, geometry knowledge and achievement, and proof-writing achievement. Proof-writing achievement correlated significantly with van Hiele level entering geometry knowledge and geometry achievement. The predictive validity of the van Hiele model was supported. (Author/DC)

Describes a geometry database unit for elementary classrooms in which students determine geometric attributes of a variety of shapes, and then set up a database that can be used to answer questions about the figures. Activities described include creating a database record format, simulating searches, and applying search criteria strategies. (five…

The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) courses for the first two years of high school integrate geometry and algebra, incorporate applications as a motivation for learning new content, and use technology as a vehicle for discovery and exploration of mathematical topics and to perform algorithmic tasks. (31 references) (MKR)

The Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) developed an applied mathematics course that integrates algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and other strands; centers around hands-on laboratory experiences; and uses real-world problems found in the world of work. (MKR)

Discusses the spatial aspects of Greeno's model of conceptual domains and applies the theory to geometry learning. Examines the relationship between mathematical and spatial thinking in light of Greeno's environmental/spatial view of learning. (Contains 16 references.) (MDH)

Gives a lesson plan for a mathematics activity using balloons which shows connections between the algebraic concepts of slope, linear functions, and power functions and the geometric concepts of circle, sphere, volume, and pi. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Presents an activity in which students draw a picture, analyze each line and curve, and write the symbolic equations represented by the graph. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Discusses flexible polyhedrons, called flexors, that can be bent so that the faces stay rigid while the angles between them seem to change. Presents models representing flexors and directions on how examples can be constructed. (MDH)