Presents an extended activity consisting of a sequence of tasks organized so that students can visit several mathematical concepts concurrently and explore connections among them. Students build solids using bendable straws to form the skeletons of various polyhedra. Topics covered include tables and charts, algebraic expressions, surface area,…

Described are inconsistencies, definitions, and examples and their complex relationship which can be used to interpret students' reactions to the geometric tasks used to investigate inconsistencies in student thinking. Discusses the nature of definitions, the value of precise vocabulary, the use and limitations of prototypes, and the power of…

Described is a short program for teaching and learning about geometric transformations. The integration of geometry problem solving and BASIC programing is discussed. Applications of computer graphics are illustrated. (CW)

Discusses the golden ratio and how to make golden triangles using recursive Logo programs. Presents some outputs of the Penrose tile patterns. (YP)

Investigates gender differences and the role of spatial visualization in problem solving in high school geometry. Reports that, whereas males and females differed in spatial visualization and in their performance, they did not differ in logical reasoning ability or in their use of geometric problem-solving strategies. (Author)

Examined are gender differences across the mathematics curriculum related to various topic areas and mathematical abilities. It was found that boys performed better than girls in geometry and excelled in comprehension, and solving routine and non-routine problems while girls were better at mathematical manipulation problems. (Author/MVL)

Describes experiences for engineering students to develop spatial awareness and reasoning capability. Describes geometric modeling, basic geometric concepts, operations, surface modeling, and conclusions. (YP)

Presents 2 teaching ideas: (1) incorporating art, poetry, and geometry in class projects, and (2) showing alternative ways to introduce the statement, "If the product of two numbers is zero...," particularly by changing the word "zero" to "10" in the statement. (MKR)

Utilizes LOGO to teach the concept of inequalities by programing the turtle to take random walks in the coordinate plane restricted to predetermined regions defined by inequalities. The students task is to discover the inequalities that define the illegal areas into which the turtle must not move. Provides examples and corresponding computer…

Describes two investigations suitable for grades seven and eight that explore the properties of the figure created when the midpoints of an equilateral triangle or square are joined. (MDH)

Presented is the development of school geometry in contemporary Greece since the era in which the secondary education system was established (1836). Identified and interpreted are the reasons for the endurance of Euclid's Elements as the basic component of school geometry in Greece. (KR)

Mathematical fiction writing as a learning tool is discussed utilizing an actual example of a student's fictional text related to the field of geometry. Commentary about this example and how it relates to other areas of mathematics can provide teachers with insight into students' schema for organization and internalization of mathematical…

Describes the use of Margaret Wise Brown's "The Important Book" to involve students in writing about defining qualities and attributes of geometric shapes. (MKR)

A list of potential writing ideas and general guidelines to be used in integrating writing into the mathematics classroom are provided. Ideas under the headings of narrative, descriptive, and expository writing are included. (KR)

Described are ways in which some teachers have used a software package called "The Geometric Supposer." The development of inquiry skills is stressed. Recommendations for students using the Supposer are provided. (CW)