Presents a paper-folding method to develop a class repertoire of construction methods for the ellipse, hyperbola, and parabola using straws, rulers, dental floss, paper circles, and other household items. Uses the Geometer's Sketchpad software to complement the paper-folding process. (MKR)

Demonstrates the application of spreadsheet analysis in solving equations beyond quadratics. Considers the costs of interest, gasoline, and maintenance in deciding how long it pays to keep a car. (MKR)

Presents activities in which students study exponential growth and decay by collecting data, constructing graphs, and discovering algebraic formulas. (MKR)

Uses parametric equations and a graphing calculator to investigate the connections among the algebraic, numerical, and graphical representations of functions. (MKR)

Presents classroom curriculum and student projects that use dynamical systems--something that changes over time, such as weather or populations--to capture students' attention. (MKR)

Describes the incorporation of audio-taped notes about student work, a rubric for scoring aspects of students' problem solving, and student portfolios in a program of classroom assessment. (MKR)

Describes the use of spreadsheets to discuss mathematical concepts without using algebraic notation. Presents examples using Fibonacci numbers and factorials. (MKR)

Comments on current reform in mathematics teaching. Changes include getting students actively involved in their mathematics studies and encouraging them to see the larger picture. College teaching has involved more technology as well as ensuring that a broader spectrum of students benefit than in the past. Reform movements need to more closely…

Discusses the value of student self-assessment in promoting students' confidence in their ability to do mathematics and allowing them to become more independent in their learning of mathematics. The article describes various methods by which a student may self-evaluate and how the teacher might respond in fairly detailed examples. (AIM)

Describes how the use of journal prompts is closely aligned with the use of student discourse and open-ended, open-response test items. Students can use their responses to assess their own growth, whereas teachers can use them to detect trends across and within classes regarding the progression of understanding of specific topics, concepts,…

Data collection and analysis is often missing from the new curriculum reform textbooks. This article gives directions for data collection and data analysis for the Stroop Test and for a human-chain wrist experiment. (AIM)

Suggests that, for some classes of functions, an algebraic method is available that provides a nonstandard application of the discriminant conditions as well as an exact method of optimization for precalculus students. Examples are given, and students should compare these methods with others regarding generality, ease, and efficiency. (AIM)

Describes the systemic reform necessary to bring about the requisite changes that reflect those recommended by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Among the characteristics of systemic professional development are a long-term collaborative plan focused on the total learning community with its construction by its participants.…

Discusses the value of journal assignments for diagnosing and trouble-shooting misconceptions and for helping with lesson plans. Examples of assignments are included as well as student responses. (AIM)

Six female mathematicians and their accomplishments spanning 1500 years are highlighted. The six women chosen were Hypatia, Emilie du Chatelet, Sophie Germain, Sonya Kovalevsky, Emmy Noether, and Julia Robinson. The women were selected for inclusion based on the myriad aspects of their contributions. (AIM)