Presented are three methods to enrich the mathematics classroom. The first introduces an activity allowing students to discover the law of sines. The second gives eight distance-rate-time problems of value for their counterintuitive or elegant solutions. The third poses multiple answer questions that promote student interaction and communication.…

Presented is a teacher's guide for a hands-on activity challenging students to develop problem-solving behaviors by exploring the construction of a right-cylinder of maximum volume from an m x n sheet of metal. Reproducible worksheets leading students through the activity are provided. (MDH)

From the equality of the ratios of the surface areas and volumes of a sphere and its circumscribed cylinder, the exploration of theorems relating the ratios of surface areas and volumes of a sphere and other circumscribed solids in three dimensions, and analogous questions relating two-dimensional concepts of perimeter and area is recounted. (MDH)

Describes the structure and organization of a research and training program focusing on urban poverty and social welfare policy. Explains that the program trains undergraduates in the theory and empirical analysis of issues in poverty research. Notes that students must develop and present a plan of service to a local social service agency in an…

A mathematics achievement test was taken by 132 U.S. and 110 Japanese fifth graders. Scores were higher for the Japanese, and relatively better for computation than problem solving. The reverse was true for the U.S. students. Results are discussed in terms of amount and kind of exposure to mathematics. (SLD)

A general common-sense model of interactive teaching is presented, including conscious and partly or totally unconscious decision making. The model assumes that the teacher wishes to choose actions that are as appropriate as possible to the situation and goals of teaching. Knowledge and emotional variables influence the process. (SLD)

No differences are found in scientific hypothesis formulation ability of 36 male and 50 female gifted ninth graders, but investigation of related variables indicates that hypothesis formulation may be independent of intelligence for high-ability students. A positive relationship also exists between quality and quantity of student responses. (SLD)

This article presents a problem-solving model of vocabulary instruction in content classes and applies it to a social studies lesson for special needs learners. The guidelines of the five-step model include establishing what is known, highlighting the new, generating connections between the "known" and the "new," gathering information, and…

Presents a study of metacognitive responses of English school children examining four common metacognitive function measures. Discusses the content of each measure, the search for developmental commonality, and statistical relationships. Concludes that no evidence supported a common metacognitive factor or unified construct, although a common…

Instead of becoming a launching pad for tomorrow, schooling must be worthwhile for today. Learning to learn must overshadow the acquisition of methods, skills, and knowledge. Educators must conscientiously avoid programs that accommodate the masses at the expense of individuals. Principals must exercise influence to replace memorization and rote…

Total Quality Management is a team approach that challenges administrators to rethink their traditional decision-making and problem-solving strategies. This article describes the use of pilot programs (Key Communicators Network, School Leadership Teams, and a Number "One"derful Idea program) to help teachers feel part of a professional…

A study investigated the ability of University of Newcastle upon Tyne (England) teacher trainees to use their problem-solving skills in experiential programs in local businesses and public services. Students were grouped in teams and placed as "intelligent outsiders" with employers. Results for hosts and students are reported, and…

Presents an experiment to investigate centripetal force and acceleration that utilizes an airplane suspended on a string from a spring balance. Investigates the possibility that lift on the wings of the airplane accounts for the differences between calculated tension and measured tension on the string. (MDH)

This article describes the development, over 13 years, of the Minnesota Young Inventors Program and Fair, focusing on its program components, including invention instruction and exhibit judging, the inventors fair, exhibit opportunities, plans for the future, and administration. The involvement of community businesses and corporations,…

Discusses the challenges of teaching high school geography in a way that enables students to develop an informed, spatial view of the world. Discusses the High School Geography Project and its effect on geography instruction. Suggests a map drawing exercise for students to demonstrate the importance of mental maps. (DK)