Discusses the Texas Instruments calculator the TI-92 and how it can be an effective tool in the mathematics classroom. Provides examples of combining the algebra capabilities of the calculator and Cabri-Geometry II with graphing, tables of values, statistics, programming, and a simple text editor to enhance mathematics instruction. (DDR)

The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) courses for the first two years of high school integrate geometry and algebra, incorporate applications as a motivation for learning new content, and use technology as a vehicle for discovery and exploration of mathematical topics and to perform algorithmic tasks. (31 references) (MKR)

A way for students to refresh and use their knowledge in both mathematics and physics is presented. By the study of the properties of the "Runge-Lenz" vector the subjects of algebra, analytical geometry, calculus, classical mechanics, differential equations, matrices, quantum mechanics, trigonometry, and vector analysis can be reviewed. (KR)

Virtually every public issue depends on data, projections, inferences, and systemic thinking. Besides basic mathematics skills, numeracy (quantitative literacy) encompasses estimating tolerances and errors, constructing complex computer simulations, using flowcharts, drawing inferences, and calculating in three dimensions. The narrow…

Reviewed are two computer software packages for Macintosh microcomputers including "Phase Portraits," an exploratory graphics tool for studying first-order planar systems; and "MacMath," a set of programs for exploring differential equations, linear algebra, and other mathematical topics. Features, ease of use, cost, availability, and hardware…

Discussed are supercalculator capabilities and possible teaching implications. Included are six examples that use a supercalculator for topics that include volume, graphing, algebra, polynomials, matrices, and elementary calculus. A short review of the research on supercomputers in education and the impact they could have on the curriculum is…

Results from North Carolina's End-of-Course Testing Program in 1989-90 are presented. Participation, student characteristics, and achievement are summarized, largely in table form, for the following subject areas: (1) Algebra I, (2) Geometry, (3) Algebra II, (4) Biology, (5) Chemistry, (6) Physics, (7) U.S. History, and (8) English I. Background…

Discrete mathematics, the mathematics of decision making for finite settings, is a topic of great interest in mathematics education at all levels. Attention is being focused on resolving the diversity of opinion concerning the exact nature of the subject, what content the curriculum should contain, who should study that material, and how that…

Based on research on the geometric understanding of regular and gifted middle school students, this article describes a procedure for assessing geometry readiness in mathematically able middle school students. The procedure utilizes the vanHiele model of stages of geometric understanding and distinguishes between readiness for algebra and…

Argues that geometric models should be used to analyze, interpret, and solve problems from probability, algebra, and other areas of mathematics and that geometry should have a place among the major topics of emphasis in the mathematics studies of a middle school student. Presents responses from selected teachers to some questions about geometry.…

Presents activities that use toy balloons to offer students interesting opportunities to connect algebra and geometry. Involves students measuring the speed of a released balloon and investigating the subtle relationship between the volume of a sphere and its surface area. Prompts a rich and revealing discussion about why the experimental results…

Based on research showing that successful completion of high school algebra and geometry is a predictor of Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) success, the Equity 2000 Program encourages school systems to steer minority children into higher-level math courses. Maryland's Prince George's County is one of the program's demonstration projects, showing…

In an interview, Vinetta C. Jones, director of the Equity 2000 Program, discusses aspects of the initiative, which aims to promote the academic success of minority group students by encouraging minority achievement in high school algebra and geometry through the school districts. Topics discussed include program goals, characteristics and…

This research assessed the academic impact of a computer-assisted instructional (CAI) software program to teach mathematics. The research hypothesis states that the use of the CAI program will produce superior academic achievement in mathematics for students who use the program compared to students instructed in mathematics without the program.…

This issue of "Indicator of the Month" lists percentages of high school graduates taking selected mathematics and science courses in high school in 1982, 1987, 1990, and 1992. Findings include: (1) High school graduates in 1992 were more likely to take mathematics courses at the level of algebra I or higher and most science courses at the level of…