This study investigated issues affecting the achievement of girls talented in mathematics, focusing on those enrolled in the Advanced Placement program. Data from 1975, when boys were first admitted to all-girl classes, to 1985 are compared. Aptitude increased, achievement remained virtually unchanged, but GPAs for girls dropped. (MNS)

Including difference equations in the mathematics curriculum is proposed. Some fundamental ideas and examples are presented. (MNS)

This activity exposes beginning algebra students to the concepts of slope and intercept. Four worksheets pertain to the "electrician problem." (MNS)

The crucial moment to change the speed setting on a VCR serves as the problem in which linear equations are used. (MNS)

The evolution of complex numbers is described, followed by discussion of some lessons that can be learned from this story, as with other stories from the history of mathematics. Suggestions for teachers about incorporating history into mathematics instruction are included. (MNS)

The concept of variable is central to mathematics teaching and learning in junior and senior high schools. Described is a structured reflexive exercise designed to reexamine the notion of variable and to rediscover its richness and multiplicity of meaning. (PK)

Argues that there is a sense of surprise and wonder that can result from looking back at problem solutions and there is a potential for then creating unexpected, even memorable, alternative solutions. Example problems with routine solutions and alternative approaches uncovered while "looking back" at the solution are given. (PK)

Suggests that good number sense is fundamental for success in estimation, approximation, and problem solving. Further, large-number concepts are appropriate for development in upper elementary school, high school, and beyond. Presents examples to enhance a sense of large numbers in middle and high school students. (PK)

Reports 17 recommendations that focus primarily on curriculum in grades 11-13 for students who take a four-year college-preparatory program. Appropriate curricular patterns for students who are intending to pursue careers that depend on mathematics are indicated. (PK)

Explores the following classical problem: given any 30 points on a circle, join them in pairs by segments in all possible ways. What is the greatest number of nonoverlapping regions into which the interior of the circle can be separated? Presents strategies for solving this problem. (PK)

Considered is the following question: If a consumer loan is prepaid before the contract time, how much of the total interest should be paid to the lending institution? Discusses the validity of the rule and demonstrates strategies for answering interest questions. (PK)

Presents results of an investigation of a formula for rank correlation. The exploration turned up an unexpected connection and showed the formula to be far from arbitrary. (PK)

Investigates the arithmetic curiosity that when any integer is raised to the fifth power, the digits unit of the result is always the same as the digits unit of the original number. Explores results in number bases other than 10 via the computer. (PK)

This article presents some of the optics and mathematics related to what causes a rainbow, why it is brighter inside than out, and why more than one rainbow may appear. (PK)

Presents reviews of five computer packages: (1) "Algebra Attack" contains games and tests; (2) "Bootstrap Stats" requires learners to write programs while studying probability and statistics; (3) "Geometry and Microcomputers" contains 13 lessons on mathematics and graphics; (4) "Math Grapher" is an algebraic graphing program; and (5) "Statlab" is…