This paper discusses the role of the culture in secondary mathematics education. A historical and philosophical look at the relationship between the real world and mathematics and mathematics education is developed. The U.S. secondary mathematics curriculum is explored both historically and philosophically to try to ascertain its changing…

Describes several ways to implement the NCTM Standards in technically enhanced classrooms. Presents examples from "Computer-Intensive Algebra." Provides suggestions for implementation. (YP)

This book was written as a resource for middle and high school teachers hoping to ease their students' transition to algebra. Drawing on experiences with three professional development programs, key "habits of thinking" that characterize the successful learning and use of algebra are outlined. Strategies teachers can use to cultivate…

Described is an approach to teaching algebra in a meaningful context by using problem solving to motivate students and increase their retention. Examples of this approach are given. (CW)

Presents a read-aloud from Mark Twain's "Life on the Mississippi" and describes its use (and class activities for it) in algebra and geography classes. (SR)

Discusses how students fail to recognize the underlying equivalence when the same set of points is represented by a graph or an equation or a table. Presents activities in which more than one form of representations of the same information are included. (ASK)

Presents activities designed to help students bridge the gap between the graphical representation of a function and a verbal description. Includes a number of nonstandard graphs and reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

The recursive model presented here involves the study of drugs in the bloodstream and their subsequent elimination from the body. Both a basic and a more realistic model are presented and discussed in terms of an algebraic approach, a recursive approach, the graphical representation, and other extensions and connections particularly with models…

Presents a methodology designed to strengthen the cognitive effects of using graphing calculators to solve polynomial equations using pattern matching, searching, and heuristics. Discusses pattern matching as a problem-solving strategy useful in the physical, social, political, and economic worlds of today's students. (DDR)

The problem-of-the-week (POW) and problem-solving class openers are exemplified as methods for the integration of course-relevant problem solving into a first-year algebra classroom without sacrificing time spent on developing skills and learning concepts. Illustrated examples, as well as problem sources, are included. (JJK)

This case study investigates an experienced secondary school mathematics teacher's understanding of mathematics ("her" math) and decisions she makes about her students' classroom experiences ("their" math). This report focuses on the competing roles of the teacher's growing understanding of novel technology-rich mathematics and her decisions about…

Presents a case study of one high school student's experiences in a first-year algebra course. Emphasizes the use of technology and how it changed the mathematics curriculum. (ASK)

Demonstrates the use of hexagonal dot paper in integrating algebra, geometry, and trigonometry within a single problem-solving setting rather than treating them in isolation. Suggests other related mathematically challenging activities for enrichment. (AIM)

Reports the results of a teaching experiment involving like terms and equations in algebra. Seventh-grade students (n=6) experienced difficulties in decomposing an additive term into a difference. (Author/MKR)

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)