In general, studies investigating sex differences in mathematics performance have empirically analyzed students' responses from standardized tests. This paper reports a study to extend the investigation of sex differences related to mathematics performance by examining cognitive and motivational factors as well as standardized test scores. Boys…

A component of preservice teacher education is the methodology of teaching mathematics using manipulatives. To enhance prospective teachers' understanding of the use of manipulatives to teach mathematics, interactive video can provide an effective medium to bring the reality of the school classroom to the university classroom. Two interactive…

As the nation pursues the goal of becoming first in the world in science achievement among students, many are advocating an instructional approach that emphasizes activities and learning by doing. Instructional approaches in science education that involve activity and direct experience have become collectively known as hands-on science. This…

This policy analysis report on the Dade County Public Schools was written as part of an Honors Student Mentor Group sponsored by the Institute for Public Policy and Citizenship Studies. The students visited several schools, conducting personal interviews with staff and students, and reviewed statistical sources on a weekly basis under the guidance…

Seymour Papert's vision for early childhood education involves using Logo, a child-friendly computer language. He envisioned a discovery, or self-directed, method of teaching and learning. This article describes three observational studies conducted in classrooms that were attempting to implement Papert's vision. Data from 9 kindergartners and 5…

This report describes a Prescription Learning Company basic mathematics multi-media laboratory at an elementary school in Austin, Texas. Research assumptions that the Prescription Learning approach makes are explored and reviewed. A sample of 12 fifth grade students participated in attitude and achievement results of the laboratory. Twenty-four…

This paper uses inquiry-based learning to introduce primary students to the concepts and terminology found in four introductory engineering courses: Differential Equations, Circuit Analysis, Thermodynamics, and Dynamics. Simple electronic sensors coupled with everyday objects, such as a troll doll, demonstrate and reinforce the physical principles…

This is one of a series of 20 booklets designed for participants in an in-service course for teachers of elementary mathematics. The course, developed by the University of Illinois Arithmetic Project, is designed to be conducted by local school personnel. In addition to these booklets, a course package includes films showing mathematics being…

Proposed is a model for basic preconditions for "the design of effective programs in developmental learning." Such a program should include (1) a continuous psychocognitive diagnosis and assessment of each child; (2) a structured, coherent, sequential approach to content area; (3) a focus on symbolic manipulation and the essentials of a concept;…

The major purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of mathematics instruction based on the use of manipulative materials in grades 4, 5, and 6. A secondary purpose was to find whether this approach is differentially effective for students in different grade level, sex, or welfare recipient categories. Three treatment groups, one…

This paper reports on a study that examines mathematics scores when hands on manipulatives and group activities are used in the classroom at the middle school level. The study also explores changes in students' opinions of mathematics, assesses the intentions of females to take higher mathematics classes in high school, and surveys the amount of…

Reviews studies suggesting benefits of block play for literacy development that provides actual reading and writing experiences. Suggests that block play centers can be literacy-enhanced with materials that are authentic, useful, and appropriate, including: thematic books, magazines, architectural blueprints, envelopes, and adding machine tape.…

Proposes angle sense as a fundamental connector between mathematical concepts for middle grade students. Introduces the use of pattern blocks and a goniometer, a tool to measure angles, to help students develop angle sense. Discusses connections between angle measurement and the concepts of rational numbers, circles, area, number theory,…

Presents a unit of three lessons to teach Newton's Laws of Motion. After rotating through learning centers, answering questions, and recording observations, students are asked to generate a "class law" that explains the scientific phenomenon they observed. (MDH)

Describes "Family Computers," an educational program developed by EQUALS that brings families together weekly to have fun with mathematics while using computers. Discusses software selection, provides a lesson plan for grades 4-8, and presents 7 tips for instructors. (MDH)