The material in this reprint, with minor editorial changes, is from the chapter "Doing the Impossible" in MONKEY BUSINESS by Irving Adler. This 25-page booklet contains brief accounts of historical attempts to prove impossible problems in mathematics. The mathematical recreations in this booklet of geometric constructions include the trisection…

This collection includes 50 mathematical games and puzzles for classroom use at all grade levels. Also included is a wide variety of activities with cubes, flash cards, graphs, dots, number patterns, geometric shapes, cross-number puzzles, and magic squares. (MM)

Reports on a teaching experiment in which 7th grade pupils were led to produce original crossword puzzles. Describes the initial phase (problems and solutions) and the construction of individual puzzles (two are presented as examples). Suggests procedures for cooperation in working out the "clues". (Text is in German and English.)…

The objective of this puzzle is to give students practice in linear measurement and obtain the skill of using a metrestick. A diagram for constructing the puzzle is included. (MP)

Five mathematical puzzles of the type requiring numbers or pieces to be placed in certain positions to produce a specific result are described. The puzzles are presented in the form of dice, pentominoes, boards, and numbered pegs. (MN)

Answers to a list of twenty geometry-related questions are hidden in a matrix of letters. The answers can be read in eight different directions: vertically, horizontally, on both diagonals, forward, and backward. (MN)

An activity is presented in which students use eight-place pocket calculators to demonstrate their knowledge of correct order of operations for mathematical expressions. After performing an indicated computation and getting a result, the student inverts the calculator to obtain a word or abbreviation to be entered in a crossword puzzle. (MN)

Describes a laboratory exercise in which a writer verbally directs a reader to assemble a seven-piece puzzle. Discusses how the exercise provides a test of communicative effectiveness, an illustration of the communication process, and an opportunity to examine assumptions that writers often make. (ARH)

Presents number tricks appropriate for use in workshops, mathematics clubs or at other times when stressing recreational mathematics. (PK)

Simulation activities provide opportunities to focus on the individual's contribution, encourage creativity, and build self-esteem. These activities can help develop social skills and understanding of other cultures by fostering attitudes of tolerance and sensitivity. (Examples of simulations are included.) (SED)

Seventy fifth-grade students in Australia were observed as each solved a jigsaw puzzle. Boys obtained higher scores on a measure of cognitive style and took less time to complete the jigsaw task; the two measures were significantly correlated. Uses of tangrams are also discussed. (MNS)

This metric puzzle is designed to give students practice in linear measurement through fitting sidewalk pieces together on the game board. A pattern for the gameboard is included. (DT)

Discusses the objectives, construction and use of crossword puzzles in classes in English as a foreign language. (RM)

The logical mysteries in this book are designed to develop critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills, motivate children to read carefully, and develop memory skills. The mystery solutions are explained at the end of the book. The first nine mysteries are intended for third grade students to work on with their teacher or parents. The second…

Describes a teaching technique, using jigsaw puzzles, that is designed to give beginning science students a better idea of the nature of scientific research. (JR)