The author shares 12 problems he has found effective in stimulating the imagination of students. (MNS)

It is felt teachers can adopt techniques of magicians to mathematics instruction whenever it seems appropriate. Ideas for a unit on the properties of odd and even integers are presented for teachers who enjoy some theatrics in the classroom. The goal is to teach mathematical ideas underlying magic tricks. (MP)

The following ideas are presented: plans for constructing a calculator bin rack that provides a place for a school to store and charge calculators; a lesson in geometry based on a news article about salt containers; and a very simple approach to the concept of infinite geometric series. (MP)

An unusual way of using the long multiplication algorithm to solve problems is presented. It is conceptually harder, since it involves negative numbers but is easier to perform once mastered, since the size of the multiplication table required is smaller than the standard one. (MP)

NCTM's Curriculum and Evaluation Standards are often invoked to support many kinds of educational practices; however, the Standards were not written as a prescription for teaching and learning. Instead of taking the Standards literally, educators should use common sense to judge how to use them in individual situations. Includes case study…

Describes the history of the 14th-century mathematician and some samples of his work with word problems. Introduces ways of using historically original sources as a way to interest students and teach mathematics. (KHR)

Describes ways of using existing popular songs, writing raps, or writing new words for existing tunes in the mathematics classroom to supply motivation and mnemonics. (KHR)

Relationships among the sides are developed for right triangles whose sides are in the ratios 1:3, 1:4, and 1:5. The golden ratio appears in the results which can be used in secondary mathematics. (DC)

A method for generating 3x3 magic squares is developed. A series of questions relating to these magic squares is posed. An invesitgation using matrix methods is suggested with some questions for consideration. (LS)

Presented are the purposes served by mathematical investigation--the exploration of open situations in a relatively unstructured way--and an example (investigating numbers adding to 13), with numerous questions and conjectures. (MNS)

Example of magic tricks that can be used as an integral part of various lessons in arithmetic and algebra are given. Their mathematical basis is also discussed. (MNS)

Five problems are given which are designed to challenge gifted students while giving them opportunities to use algebraic concepts. Solutions are provided. (MNS)

Educational activities based on easily constructed peg games are detailed, along with advice on how they can be constructed. The activities are designed to guide students to collect and organize data; recognize, extend, and generalize patterns; and develop problem-solving strategies. (MP)

The mathematics for a lunar shuttle landing simulation is discussed using equations, charts and tables. (MP)

Story problems related to transportation are seen as tools to motivate students to study mathematics by relating the subject to the real world. Schedule making for transportation planning is reviewed. (MP)