Observations focusing on classroom discourse, uses of graphing calculators, nature of instructional tasks, and instructor-questioning patterns in a high school algebra course found that the teacher modified his teaching strategies and curriculum to accommodate the teaching strategies and topics that arose from the use of the graphing calculator.…

In the attempt to improve the quality of geometry instruction in schools, researchers and teachers alike have given considerable attention to the van Hiele theory of geometry learning and development, which proposes a series of cognitive levels through which every geometry student passes. This paper reports a study to determine the extent to which…

Presents two activities created by preservice middle school teachers that integrate technology and real-life mathematics in algebra. (MKR)

Explores applications of the Fibonacci series in the areas of probability, geometry, measurement, architecture, matrix algebra, and nature. (MDH)

Demonstrates the mathematical nature of a pollution problem in a marine environment. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (11 references) (MKR)

This paper presents a sequence of computer-based activities aimed at achieving an intuitive understanding of the ideas and concepts underlying the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra. Deductive proofs to support students' empirical investigations are also discussed. (LZ)

The purpose of this article is to highlight and discuss the role of language as the link between experiences with number patterns and the emergence of algebraic notation. Discussed is a recommended approach. A sample of a written student response is provided. (CW)

This collection of activities is intended to enhance the teaching of college algebra through the use of modeling. The problems use real data and involve the representation and interpretation of the data. The concepts addressed include rates of change, linear and quadratic regression, and functions. The collection consists of eight problems, four…

This paper compares a number of different Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) in their solution of one-step and multi-step problems. The CAS programs considered include DERIVE, Maple, Mathematica, and MuPAD while the problems are taken from the final examinations of grades 9 and 12 in Estonian schools. The different outputs to one-step problems with…

Presents an insightful approach to algebra that enhances both personal and classroom communication through the process of solving a linear equation. (KHR)

Describes a classroom activity in which students explore a real-life application of algebra by sending secret messages to each other. (MKR)

Discusses the value of journal assignments for diagnosing and trouble-shooting misconceptions and for helping with lesson plans. Examples of assignments are included as well as student responses. (AIM)

This paper considers how the algebra curriculum in secondary mathematics might be reformulated by rethinking both the content of algebra and the approaches to teaching and learning algebraic concepts. It considers how the concept of function can be made a central theme of the algebra curriculum and further suggests that computer software, when…

This digest provides research on curriculum and assessment in the age of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). The digest presents research on assessment with CAS technology, teacher accounts of assessment with CAS technology and curriculum issues. (Contains 18 references.) (MM)