Attempts to unveil negative images portrayed by Socrates in a dialog with a boy about concepts of squares; illustrates how Socrates' manner may have confused the boy; analyzes the types of questions Socrates favored; and suggests study of this dialogue in teacher preparation programs that attempt to convey more congenial mathematics teaching. (MKR)

Presents activities with 10- and 4-straw flexigons, an object created by stringing together lengths of plastic drinking straws with nylon fishing line. Discusses several geometric theorems that can be demonstrated with flexigons. (MKR)

Presents a strategy for graphing conic sections on the polar plane without using a table of values by beginning with information gained from the graphs of circular functions. (MKR)

Presents a secondary classroom investigation into mathematical modeling techniques with the graphing calculator using a match stick puzzle. Geometric models, through their corresponding area formulas, are constructed, tested, and analyzed graphically to fit specified problem conditions. (Author/MKR)

Uses probability and Pascal's triangle to analyze the game Plinko from the game show "The Price Is Right." (MKR)

Presents a solution to the problem of finding the probability that a needle would cross a crack in a tile floor when dropped. (MKR)

Discussed are two approaches to determining which regular polygons, either inscribed within or circumscribed about the unit circle, exhibit rational area or rational perimeter. One approach involves applications of abstract theory from a typical modern algebra course, whereas the other approach employs material from a traditional…

Relates, in story form, how to make geometric and algebraic concepts more accessible to children by using one-dimensional grids. (MKR)

Presents a problem and a line of reasoning inspired by working in dynamic geometry environments and allowing students to make a geometric construction on the computer and then manipulate the construction by dragging points, lines, and segments. (MKR)

Demonstrates how instruction in writing paragraph proofs can be developed and implemented including organizing, writing proofs in paragraphs, evaluating a proof, sketching a proof, and drawing conclusions. (MKR)

An exercise which relates particle scattering and the calculation of cross-sections to answer the following question--"Do you get wetter by walking or running through the rain?"--is described. The calculations used to answer the question are provided. (KR)

Reported is one researcher's efforts to solve a classic mathematical problem called the "sphere packing problem." The historical barriers to solving this geometry problem are discussed. (CW)

Defines and discusses the proper use of radians in physics equations and problem solving. The article suggests that many physics instructors inadequately explain how and when to use radians to their students. (MVL)

Presents a set of activities in which students explore how complex models can be generated using a small and simple set of rules. (ASK)

Presents four related problems that provide examples of ways to include justifications of interesting mathematics in courses taught prior to a geometry course. (ASK)