Methods are suggested for encouraging high school students to write mathematics research papers. Sources for information are discussed, a general outline for the paper is given, grading procedures are described, and several topics for reports are listed. (DT)

A geometric approach to the solution of quadratic equations and more general polynomials is based on finding points with minimum distance from the x-axis. The approach is useful in motivating the definition of complex numbers. (SD)

Argues that assessment is not consistent with curricular or pedagogical reforms. Presents an assessment format and several variations that incorporate both individual and group work. Outlines a testing format that promotes the alignment of the assessment of student mathematical achievement and skills with some of the curricular reforms occurring…

Presents an activity on soap-bubble geometry using a guessing contest, explanations, and demonstrations that allow students to mesh observation and mathematical reasoning to discover that mathematics is much more than just number crunching. (ASK)

Reviews research on importance of strong professional communities for supporting reform. National Center for Research in Mathematical Sciences Education (NCRMSE) found significant correlation between teachers' professional community and reformed mathematics instruction. Urban Mathematics Collaboratives (UMC), Quantitative Understanding: Amplifying…

Analyzes a discussion among students as they try to find the perimeter and area of an irregular shape on a geoboard. Considers implications for teaching and suggests reflecting on discourse, students' attributes, and mathematical tasks. (DF)

Suggests that, for some classes of functions, an algebraic method is available that provides a nonstandard application of the discriminant conditions as well as an exact method of optimization for precalculus students. Examples are given, and students should compare these methods with others regarding generality, ease, and efficiency. (AIM)

Six female mathematicians and their accomplishments spanning 1500 years are highlighted. The six women chosen were Hypatia, Emilie du Chatelet, Sophie Germain, Sonya Kovalevsky, Emmy Noether, and Julia Robinson. The women were selected for inclusion based on the myriad aspects of their contributions. (AIM)

A project is described where the ultimate goal is to teach students methods of problem solving through an industrial engineering environment. Students practice sharing responsibility, understanding group dynamics, using resources efficiently, meeting deadlines, using mathematics in oral and written form, and applying the appropriate mathematics.…

Describes a calculator exercise that can help students develop a better visual and numeric feel for Newton's method. (KHR)

Reports on what proved to be one of the more challenging issues raised by the feedback to principles and Standards for School Mathematics: Discussion Draft and how that feedback was used to create a more effective final document. (KHR)

Considers reasons for trusting mathematics and why learning mathematics is important. Discusses cross-cultural consistency in mathematical knowledge. (KHR)

Introduces a room air-exchange activity designed to assess student understanding of the concept of volume. Lists materials for the activity and its procedures. Includes the lesson plan and a student worksheet. (KHR)

Presents a series of questions designed to help convince students that mathematics is useful, current, and newsworthy through solving systems of linear equations in real world contexts. (KHR)

Describes the use of data sets from ultraracing--foot races that are longer than a marathon--with second-year algebra students in data-analysis projects. (JRH)