The described learning module is designed for teachers at the middle school level who wish to improve specific basic mathematics teaching skills. The contents of the module are outlined, and activities and resources involved in its use are described. Ordering information for materials is included, and a critique of the module is provided. (JD)

Mathematics teaching is most effective when practice situations cover appropriate material, require constant thought, are transferable to new situations, make sense to the student, and are subject to analysis of components. Teachers must carefully seek the real source of errors and insure that students are as concerned with processes as with…

In the Mini-Society program intermediate grade students create their own microcosmic version of an adult economy. This study showed that in addition to increasing students' economic understanding, Mini-Society also improves the students' mathematical reasoning. (RM)

Five items requiring use of proportional, probabilistic, and correlational reasoning were administered to students (N=391) in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. Argues that successful qualitative reasoning arises as a consequence of equilibration and influences selection of course work and that specific instruction may initiate the equilibration process.…

England's National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies are designed to raise standards for all pupils. Though the skills they address are basic and need to be built up throughout the primary years, at the early stage of implementing the strategies, many older pupils will not have reached the standards expected of Year 6 pupils in future years. This…

It is not complex to teach the algorithm for multiplying fractions so that children can multiply numerators and denominators to arrive at correct answers. However, it is a challenge to teach so that students build understanding of multiplication of fractions, extending what they have already learned about fractions and about multiplication of…

Some important issues related to teaching problem solving in the elementary grades are addressed, with particular emphasis on the intermediate grades. Presents one point of view and some specific questions often raised by teachers who wish to incorporate problem solving into the mathematics program. (MP)

Asserting that problem solving is the most important mathematical skill that elementary students need to learn, the authors present teaching tips and sample problems geared to the primary and intermediate grades. (SJL)

To avoid underuse, inaccessibility, and obsolescence when choosing, purchasing, and using technology, educators should maximize the number of students sharing machines, build technology into the curriculum, ensure continuous accessibility, network computers, and build physical plant considerations into their purchase plans. A single high-end…

Offers two problem-solving ideas for hands-on pattern-block activities. A primary level activity introduces area and gives students experience with a problem that has multiple solutions. An intermediate level activity provides first-hand experience with similar shapes. (SM)

Compares effects of two models of vocabulary instruction--an integrated graphic organizer/discussion model and a definition-only model--on the mathematical vocabulary use of fourth grade students. Finds, after two weeks of instruction, a larger number of mathematical concepts recorded by the group using the integrated model than the group using…

This article describes three math units that teach statistics to middle school students with deafness. Students learn about ratios, percentage, and graphing; sampling and descriptive statistics; and means and medians. Students discuss the statistical processes in sign language, and write about them in English. (CR)

Discusses how nature can illustrate mathematical structures and concepts in the classroom. For example, the upper surface of a typical leaf structure illustrates the notion of tessellating with polygons. Also lists classroom applications and hands-on activities such as growing crystals to investigate the natural forms of polyhedra and measuring…

Describes the creation of a company purchase order complete with the names of items to be purchased, cost, quantity, discounts, sales tax, and balance due. It requires students to apply their knowledge and understanding of percentages and also gives students an opportunity to understand the mathematics they use with algebraic formulas. (AIM)

Studied the teaching and learning of fractions in two matched groups of 10 9-10-year-olds in the Netherlands. In the experimental group, fractions were introduced using the bar and number line as mental models, while the control group used fair sharing and the circle model. The experimental group showed more proficiency in fractions after 1 year.…