Clarifies aims and objectives of school algebra, reviews research on students' performance, and suggests curriculum modifications. This article is one of the keynote addresses of the Algebra Working Group of the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. (26 references) (Author/MKR)

Presents a summary report of a discussion subgroup of the Algebra Working Group at the Seventh International Conference on Mathematics Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. Argues that pre-algebra should be viewed as a continuation of arithmetic that asks different questions about numbers. (12 references) (Author/MKR)

Examines the potential role for Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) when teaching courses as functions, calculus, and linear algebra to students with low prerequisite algebra skills. A study reports the rationale, planning, and implementation of a functions course integrating Maple CAS into instruction. (MDH)

Discusses the relevance of teaching algebra to all students. Issues examined include the desperate need for reform in the algebra curriculum, developing a curriculum for a broad range of people, and rethinking how mathematics courses are structured and taught. Concludes that teaching algebra to students previously unsuccessful in mathematics will…

Presents a summary report of the Algebra Working Group's discussion subgroup on tertiary algebra at the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. (MKR)

Presents a look at the history of algebra with a historical-psychological framework. This article is one of the keynote addresses of the Algebra Working Group of the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. (33 references) (MKR)

This article is the last keynote address of the Algebra Working Group of the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. Attempts to integrate, and react to, the broad range of issues raised by the Algebra Working Group. (35 references) (MKR)

Shows how technologies are essential in a new algebra curriculum based on the NCTM Standards. This article is one of the keynote addresses of the Algebra Working Group of the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. (24 references) (MKR)

Presents a summary report of the Algebra Working Group's discussion subgroup on secondary algebra at the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. Three appendixes include the reactions to the keynote addresses in this issue. (MKR)

Presents 24 activities related to the theme of area to illustrate how algebra can empower students, not impede their progress. Activities use grid tools, manipulatives, computational tools, and paper-and-pencil tools to facilitate access, discourse, independence, and multiple representations. Well-chosen themes offer connections, motivation,…

Described are various ways that a computer algebra system (MAPLE) was used to facilitate the resequencing of skills and applications within an elementary college-level business calculus course. Experimental results confirmed earlier findings that skills acquisition is not a prerequisite to conceptual understanding or problem-solving ability. (JJK)

This longitudinal study investigated the ways in which two groups of eight students used spreadsheets to represent and solve algebra problems and related this to their previous arithmetical experiences and evolving use of symbolic language. The spreadsheet environment supported students to move from specific to general thinking. Includes story…

Discusses features of the Algebra Project, whose goals include a minimum standard of mathematical literacy for minority students and strong community involvement. (MKR)

Addresses the challenges, risks, and rewards of teaching about linear functions in a technology-rich environment from a constructivist perspective. Describes an algebra class designed for junior high school students that focuses of the representations and real-world applications of linear functions. (MDH)

Testing of and interviews with (n=83) eighth-grade students who were presented with a set of linear equation-solving and checking tasks found two categories of checking behavior: structurally erroneous behavior and executionally erroneous behavior. Relates solving and checking behavior and metacognition. (16 references) (Author/MKR)