Describes a supplementary method for teaching equivalent fractions through the use of a multiplication matrix, providing a simple visual and concrete activity that aids learners in understanding this difficult concept. (SR)

This presents several classroom activities that have been adapted from the Expedition Yellowstone program activities for fourth, fifth and sixth graders. Language arts, science, math, and social studies activities are presented. Expedition Yellowstone activities focus on the geology, ecology, animal life, and history of Yellowstone Park. (IAH)

Describes an activity used with a fifth-grade mathematics class in which students solved a problem and wrote a convincing argument to prove their solution made sense. (SR)

Calculator riddles can interest elementary students in math. Solving riddles where a numerical answer turned upside down reveals a word answer provides an amusing way to practice mathematical operations and learn about calculator functions. The paper explains how to create word riddles and includes student work pages. (SM)

Contemporary learning theory supports the use of writing as a cognitive tool to enhance retention and assist students to understand abstract mathematical concepts. Using writing activities in the intermediate grade and secondary classroom enhances the learning of mathematics and is a way of making mathematics more reachable to those students who…

Describes a paradigm for generating a variety of problem situations in middle school mathematics, ranging from combining a single mathematical concept or process with a single context, to combining multiple concepts or processes with multiple contexts. Offers several illustrative examples. (SR)

One of a series of activity guides designed to aid teachers in developing the thinking skills of intermediate grade students, this publication offers a variety of learning activities and resource materials. The activities and resources include: a calendar which lists important days and birthdays in December, January, and February; poems; word…

Four teacher-originated student activities are featured. A mental health unit incorporates a panel of student "experts" who answer anonymous queries. Tax returns and rockets enhance mathematics units, and students learn to manage their own behavior with the "I Can Manage My Behavior" card. (IAH)

Presents a unit of study for middle school mathematics that investigates number bases and their emerging patterns as a means to revisit the base-10 system. Describes how the unit incorporates recording, viewing, discussing, and journaling aspects. (SR)

Presents suggestions for teaching elementary students about shapes and similarities. Primary students can read an illustrated story that encourages observation and discussion of shapes. Intermediate students can cut shapes out of magazines and describe their similarities. Another activity teaches students that geometrically similar figures,…

Describes a year-long project for upper elementary-middle school students that incorporates mathematics, language skills, problem solving, and economics in a classroom business. Outlines the 13-step process that the author's students followed in planning and running a classroom candy store. (SR)

One of a series of activity guides, this publication offers a variety of learning activities and resource materials for intermediate grade students. The activities and resources include: science activities and facts (especially dealing with soil and rocks); mathematics activities; arts and crafts activities (including making a pinata and tree…

This monograph is designed to furnish classroom teachers with insight and ideas for teaching reading more carefully by emphasizing the what and how aspects of instruction. It is written for the teacher of mathematics in the middle and secondary grades who realizes the important relationship between effective reading skills and learning…

This project focused on the use of creative dramatics as a teaching tool in core academic subject classrooms. Research has shown that student-centered instructional activities, such as the use of creative dramatics, allow students to construct knowledge and make meaningful the new concepts being learned. This case study describes the classroom…

Addresses NCTM recommendations regarding nonroutine problem solving. Illustrates general approaches, teacher discourse, and aims of problem solving via three nonroutine problems. Compares expert and novice approaches to problem solving and applies procedures endorsed by Polya regarding problem-solving strategies. Includes nine additional…