An activity that shows how mathematics can be used to model events in the real world is described. A way to calculate the area of the sun covered by the moon during a partial eclipse is presented. A computer program that will determine the coverage percentage is also included. (KR)

A variety of suggestions for making the mathematics curriculum more meaningful and interesting to students are described. Activities that incorporate real-world situations are provided for verbal items, common and decimal fractions, estimations and rounding off numbers, large and small numbers, geometry, probability, and statistics. (KR)

The simple physics behind the mechanism of the toy are explained. Experimental and mathematical steps are given that help in understanding the motion of the doll-pair. The geometry of the setup is described. (KR)

Examples and solutions to these problems are presented. Figures for which different equations are necessary are presented. The use of the geoboard for this exploration is emphasized. (CW)

Various methods for solving the problem of finding when the hour and minute hand of a watch have the same direction are explored. The relationship of these problems to the educational environment and the maturity of the student are discussed. (CW)

Discussed are the geometric patterns formed when two geometric patterns are superimposed. General moire fringes, circular and line gratings, physical applications, and projects for students are described. (CW)

Discusses how different meanings can be given to the proof at different levels and branches of mathematics education. (ASK)

Rich and stimulating instruction in geometry can be provided through playful activities with mosaics such as pattern blocks or design tiles. Presents an intriguing mosaic puzzle to describe activities at various developmental levels and how the activities can help develop children's geometric thinking. (ASK)

Presents interesting activities to develop mental imagery and the ability to transform these images. Concludes that using images facilitates mathematical thought in numerical and geometric settings. (ASK)

Compares students of average ability in three high school geometry classes that utilized computer software in varying amounts. Reports that using computer software may not be beneficial when teaching certain topics in geometry and that using computer software did improve student interest and participation. Contains 13 references. (Author/ASK)

Examines why Chinese undergraduates perform better on an eight-item water-level task (WLT) than do U.S. undergraduates. Results suggest that the combined effect of writing Chinese characters and strong mathematical training in geometry contributes significantly to skills necessary to master the WLT. (MMU)

Presents an activity that integrates biology and mathematics. Involves students in actual biological research and uses geometry, statistics, and computers to interpret data about the leaves of a tree. (ASK)

Examines solution strategies used by elementary preservice teachers to find the perimeter and area of a shaded geometric figure. Investigates inadequacies in the mathematical backgrounds of these students as well as curriculum changes to make in teacher education programs. (Author/CCM)

Presents an activity using fractal cards--eye-catching pop-up cards--by applying simple iterative processes to single sheets of paper. This activity incorporates the concepts of measurement, number systems, sequences, series, limits, recursion, iteration, self-similarity, and fractional dimensions. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

Presents an activity for eighth-grade students and beyond to explore relationships between and among the areas of various polygons. Emphasizes that students should be given the opportunity to design their own examples. (ASK)