This teacher's guide contains a collection of supplemental algebra activities adapted for secondary students who have disabilities and other students with diverse learning needs. It consists of alternative methods, materials, and activities that support strands, standards, and benchmarks found in Florida's Sunshine State Standards for mathematics.…

Given are instructions for teaching spreadsheet use for problem solving in mathematics. Examples of relevant problems from algebra through calculus are provided. The advantages of using computer spreadsheets in this application are stressed. (CW)

Discusses the rationale behind the technique of rationalizing the denominator in algebra. Argues that the importance of this technique is greatly exaggerated and is usually unnecessary. Examines an appropriate application of rationalizing the denominator. (ASK)

Reviewed are two computer software packages: "Algebra Concepts: Volume One," and "Data Insights." Each package is described and the strengths and weaknesses are highlighted. Costs and system requirements are listed. (CW)

Described is an activity that incorporates a computer, geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus to answer questions about the planet Mars. A possible crescent of Mars is compared to those of Venus and Mercury. (KR)

Stresses the value of graphing and computer algebra systems calculators when teaching about waves. Discusses how to input data into these calculators. Highlights the Texas Instruments' (TI) Web site at http://www.ti.com. (YDS)

An algebra class activity of creating computer graphics by connecting a series of ordered number pairs with subsequent investigations involving the transformations of the functional relationship between the elements of those ordered pairs is presented. (JJK)

Compares the conceptual organization of students in an integrated algebra and physical science class (SAM 9) with that of students in a discipline-specific physical science class (PSO). Analysis of students' concept maps indicates that the SAM9 students used a greater number of procedural linkages to connect mathematics and science concepts than…

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)

Described is a mathematics resource laboratory where students use a variety of computer materials to enhance, reinforce, and broaden their concepts of first- and second-year algebra and geometry. Included are sample laboratory sheets and the answers. (KR)

Discusses the difficulties observed in the transition from teaching arithmetic to teaching algebra. Future teachers (n=164) were questioned regarding to what extent they were able to shift back and forth between teaching methods within the context of problem solving. Interviews were conducted individually and in a dyad format. (AIM)

Defines and discusses anamorphic art and describes an anamorphic art activity using the reflection of mirrored cylinders through a grid system. Particularly suitable for algebra or geometry classes. Requires some minimal skills from coordinate geometry and spatial visualization. (AIM)

Discusses a cooperative learning group in an algebra class, Homework Partners, in order to promote active student learning. Presents difficulties and benefits of this system. Concludes that the Homework Partners concept can be beneficial for other mathematics courses. (ASK)

The Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD) developed an applied mathematics course that integrates algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and other strands; centers around hands-on laboratory experiences; and uses real-world problems found in the world of work. (MKR)

Presents a lesson combining statistics, algebra, and economics in which students create their own mathematical functions and make inferences from those functions. Students learn about the relationships among profit, revenue, and cost. Includes reproducible student group report form. (MKR)