As teachers of first-year college mathematics and science students, the authors are constantly on the lookout for simple classroom exercises that improve their students' analytical and computational skills. In this article, the authors outline a project entitled "Predicting Precipitation in Darwin." In this project, students: (1) analyze and…

This article presents a guided investigation into the spacial relationships between the centres of the squares in a Fibonacci tiling. It is essentially a lesson in number pattern, but includes work with surds, coordinate geometry, and some elementary use of complex numbers. The investigation could be presented to students in a number of ways…

Describes a personal problem solving-inquiry journey, working on a problem suggested by an activity on probability observed in a junior primary classroom. Presents reflective thoughts about the mathematical and pedagogical lessons to be learned from this journey. (ASK)

Presents interesting investigations and activities for inscribed and escribed circles of right-angled triangles. (ASK)

Provides historical information about the invention of logarithms and how they were calculated in the past. (ASK)

Describes in detail several activities designed for students studying dynamics. Incorporates life-related mathematical modeling and practical work. Uses computer technology as a tool. (Contains 15 references.) (ASK)

Reports what real life contexts meant while teaching Year 11 Geometry and Trigonometry. Presents problems to support the teaching of a topic on vectors in three-dimensional space. Takes a critical look at five of the problems in view of students' responses to them. (ASK)

Traces the history of vocationalism in education and differentiates between competency-based education and training and the Key Competencies. Highlights recent developments in mathematics for the vocational education and training sector. Addresses the concept of vocationalism in schools and some issues associated with the implementation of…

Presents an activity carried out by aboriginal students that addresses solving a real-life problem that could be linked to number sequence, graph theory, and combinations. Contains 14 references. (ASK)

Introduces an assessment scheme whereby students submitted portfolios in which they showed how they had met the objectives of the course. Concludes that while a number of problems with the assessment scheme were identified, overall there is sufficient evidence to justify saying that the scheme had a positive effect on student learning in the…

Describes approaches taken with concepts associated with exponential functions by using graphing calculators to provide students with concrete meaning for the sometimes abstract concepts involved and to link students' learning with their existing knowledge. (ASK)

One way to assist students in developing correct intuitive ideas about the effect of sample size is to allow students to simulate similar problems. Describes experiences with classes performing simulation using graphing calculators. (ASK)

Argues that the calculator is fallible as a repository of mathematical knowledge. Suggests that the calculator should be considered not only a labor-saving device but a learning device. Provides examples of the use of calculators as a learning device. Contains 16 references. (ASK)

Describes the implementation of graphing calculators as teaching and learning aids in an intermediate linear algebra unit at the undergraduate level. Outlines the approach taken and discusses the problems that arose in relation to calculator use. (ASK)

Focuses on three activities using the TI-92 graphing calculator that examine the relationship between the intensity of a light source and its distance from a measurement point, properties of a sound wave, and the relationship between the time elapsed and the temperature of a cooling substance. (ASK)