Discusses experiences in elementary statistics that involve describing data by measures of central tendency and dispersion and that are appropriate for students in secondary schools. Includes background information, instructional strategies, procedures, and a ready-to-duplicate student worksheet. (JN)

Presents ideas related to: (1) graphs (considering patterns, periodic functions, and problem-solving); (2) curing common errors (such as an incorrect way of canceling); (3) the median of a trapezoid; and (4) using a telephone directory to teach probability, graphing, random-number tables, reading tables, calculating percentages, and other topics.…

This teaching guide contains material, for students in grades 6-9, in which a calculator is used in exploring and developing generalizations about quotient patterns generated from various polygons drawn on a hundred square. Includes suggested procedures and four ready-to-duplicate student worksheets. (JN)

Presents three problems, each with a computer solution in BASIC programming language: (1) finding sum equals product for three-digit numbers; (2) finding cases of improper cancellation that give a correct answer; and (3) finding perfect numbers. Some suggestions for further investigation are included. (JN)

Shows a direct solution for factoring trinomials, without trial and error, using a calculator. When a calculator is not available, the mathematical chore is eased somewhat using reference tables, as shown in two noncalculator methods (determining nonfactorability and factorability). (JN)

Presents an activity, suitable for students in grades 6-12, on generating random numbers. Objectives, equipment needed, list of prerequisite experiences, instructional strategies, and ready-to-copy student worksheets are included. (JN)

Merit pay for teachers is discussed. The use of student performance on standardized tests as the measure of merit and the loss of cooperation among teachers are among the reasons why the author considers merit pay a poor solution for improving instruction. (MNS)

The use of trial-and-error strategies to solve problems is endorsed. Types of problems with which trial and error is effective are discussed, with examples of how it is used, and teaching considerations are briefly considered. A computer program for one problem is included. (MNS)

Several examples of problems involving measurement that occur in the life of a contractor are presented, along with solutions. Several sample measuring activities for students are included, with comments. (MNS)

Included in this section are brief articles on drawing altitudes of triangles, sketching parabolas, and visualizing variability. (MNS)

Four worksheets are given to enhance the understanding of and facility with numerical concepts and relations for students in grades seven through nine. The focus is on enhancing deductive reasoning abilities with Venn diagrams and arrow diagrams. Teaching ideas are included. (MNS)

A function-graphing program is given, plus a series of experiments that students can carry out using the program. (MNS)

Sixteen problems concerning teaching that winners of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching proposed in 1983 are presented. (MNS)

The various roles and uses of mathematics in developing global awareness in students are considered. Mathematics as a unifier of human experience and problem solving with a global emphasis are discussed with many illustrative examples. (MNS)

Growing concerns in the late 1970s about weaknesses in precollege science and mathematics education are noted. Congressional response and the effects on funding for the National Science Foundation and the Department of Education are reported. (MNS)