We describe an easy and fun project using water rockets to demonstrate applications of single variable calculus concepts. We provide procedures and a supplies list for launching and videotaping a water rocket flight to provide the experimental data. Because of factors such as fuel expulsion and wind effects, the water rocket does not follow the…

We present a lottery project for lower level mathematics courses that demonstrates financial decision making in a context familiar to students. Students use elementary principals of probability and financial mathematics to compare the expected values of buying Powerball lottery tickets to some basic savings plans. Then, they compare the expected…

Describes a house-buying active learning project designed to motivate students in lower level college mathematics courses. Discusses the mathematical content, implementation, evaluation, and benefits of the project. (Author/ASK)

Discusses how applications from microbiology and sociology can be used to involve students. Presents a physical context for critical concepts in a first-semester calculus course. (Author/ASK)