The increasing availability of computer algebra systems (CAS) for the high school classroom is expected to have a significant effect on how algebra is taught, when it is taught, and the expected learning types. This paper reports on a computer algebra approach to the teaching of algebra to 13-16 year old students in a high school in Melbourne,…

Discusses the implications of a research study of more than 2000 students aged 11 to 15 that explored why the students interpret algebra in certain ways. Recommends strategies that can help teachers deal with prior knowledge that students may bring to their study of algebra. (DDR)

Argues that the challenge for teachers of algebra in Australia is to find ways of making the structural aspects of algebra accessible to a greater percentage of students. Uses the zero product principle to provide an example of a common student error grounded in the difficulty of understanding the structure of algebra. (DDR)

Demonstrates a change in the goals of teaching the algebra of equation-solving in Victoria, Australia that requires a transition from a way of solving problems in arithmetic to a conceptually new algebraic way. Contains 20 references. (Author/ASK)

Discussed are the philosophy and procedures behind the introduction of algebra to students in grade 7 in Australia. Included are the importance of concrete experiences, language development, and the consequences involved in this procedure. (CW)

Students undertaking mathematics courses in their final year of secondary education in Victoria are assessed using a combination of school based coursework assessment and examinations. Over the last decade, students have used technology such as graphics calculators, statistical software, spreadsheets, and computer algebra systems (CAS) extensively…

Approximately 1,200 students in years 7 to 10 were tested on recognizing, using, and describing rules relating 2 variables. Fourteen interviewed students saw a variety of patterns, many of which were not helpful for algebra. Outlines critical steps in moving from a table to an algebraic rule. (MKR)

This document describes how 10 mathematics and numeracy teachers from Technical and Further Education colleges and community providers in Australia assisted in identification of mathematics skills that would form the mathematics component of the Adult Basic Education Curriculum Framework. The draft competencies are organized under the headings of…

Presents an approach to explaining a relation, a - b = -(b - a), that is difficult for algebra students to understand. The approach came about as a result of discussions with students in which they provided many novel explanations. (DDR)

Investigates the cognitive and linguistic demands of learning algebra and explores students' understanding of algebraic notation. Findings indicate specific origins of misinterpretation that include intuitive assumptions and pragmatic reasoning about a new notation, analogies with familiar symbol systems, interference from new learning in…

Examines seventh and eighth grade students in Australia, Japan, and the United States for attitudes related to mathematics, and the relationship these attitudes have to students' development of abstract mathematical thought and spatial relations. Study uses the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test, Differential Aptitude Test-Spatial Relations, and the…

A conference proceedings on mathematics education research contained the following keynote addresses: "Doing and Constructing Mathematics in Screen-Space" (Mason); "Students' Understanding of Geometry: Theoretical Perspectives" (Pegg); "The Australian Research Council and its Role in Supporting Education Research"…

The purpose of this document is to provide a framework around which systems and schools may build their mathematics curriculum. Important components of a mathematics education for the majority of students are identified. This document is presented in two parts. Part I, Principle for School Mathematics, addresses questions such as what is…

This book serves as a guide for Australian parents who want to take an active role in the mathematics learning of their children. It presents material so that families will learn, think, and talk about mathematics. Many family-life lessons, such as weighing out ingredients for a cake or choosing the best route to the zoo, are presented. The book…

Set: Research Information for Teachers, is published twice a year by the New Zealand Council for Educational Research and the Australian Council for Educational Research. This document draws together 16 articles on mathematics from previous issues grouped into three categories: general, primary, and secondary. The titles are: (1) "Contents…