Can art and science find a happy home in the same unit? We think the answer is yes, if the central problem interests the students and allows them to try out multiple abilities. The sixth-grade unit described in this article, which we called "The Dragon Project," grew mainly from two roots, a study of ancient China and a later probe into…

Hierarchical linear modeling is used to assess individual student, family, and school predictors of aggression in 111,662 students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Nine measures of problem-solving strategies, quality of family and peer interaction, and perceptions of school climate are analyzed at the individual student level. Eight measures…

T-algebra is a project for creating an interactive learning environment for expression manipulation tasks of elementary algebra. Our main didactical principle has been that all the necessary decisions and calculations at each solution step should be made by the student, and the program should be able to understand the mistakes. This paper…

In this study, a conceptual change model serves as a theoretical underpinning for analyzing what might count as evidence of conceptual change. Theoretical components of the conceptual change model include the status a conception has for learners, and the conceptual ecology of knowledge within which conceptions are believed to survive and have…

This pilot study examined the form or nature of the more highly organized knowledge structures used by successful problem solvers and whether there are experiences that would encourage their development. Previous related research and a theoretical framework are discussed. The small-group problem solving mode was used, with "A Problem with…

This study examined help-seeking and achievement behavior in elementary shool girls in a problem-solving situation. Classified as high or low in mastery orientation on the basis of their scores on a subset of items on the Intellectual Achievement Responsibility Scale, 40 fourth and sixth grade girls participated in the study. Children's task…

The differences in responses of grade 6 boys and girls to selected items on a standardized test are examined. Data are the responses of approximately 36,000 children during 1978-79 to two test forms of the California Assessment Program's Survey of Basic Skills: Grade 6 (SBS:6). Performance on specific arithmetic items is studied and involves the…

Reported is research related to the use of Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) drill-and-practice systems in the elementary schools. The investigators attempted to determine the variables related to problem difficulty by analyzing the solutions of a problem series. Students were first taught the mechanics of utilizing a computer-based teletype to…

Indicates that students who were taught by direct instruction to use specific steps in working through analogy problems significantly improved in their ability to solve analogies. (FL)

A study done based on the premise that classroom groups can help students develop their intellectual thinking and potential, especially their skills in critical thinking. Students were paired according to similar I.Q. scores. (EB)

Discusses questioning techniques and problem solving approaches for a sixth grade elementary school physical science activity using dry ice. Sequential steps of analysis and synthesis and supportive science demonstrations necessary for closure on Why" type questions are emphasized. (JM)

This study looked at student difficulties with fractions by focusing on understanding of part/whole relationships. The sample consisted of two sixth-grade and two eighth-grade classes. A lack of substantial improvement from sixth to eighth grade on many fraction tasks was noted and viewed as cause for concern. (MP)

Describes two group projects in sixth grade classrooms in Appalachia. The purpose of the projects was to encourage the students to become interested in community problems and actively work on solutions. Both projects were multifaceted learning experiences that helped to develop responsible attitudes and leadership abilities. (JD)

Argues that students need to be able to solve daily problems, set goals, and identify strategies for themselves. Suggests two methods for teaching these skills while reinforcing and incorporating the crucial processes of writing and language skills into learning mathematics: A Problem of the Week and Thinking Journals. (RAE)

Presents a problem for grades 3-6 on number concepts and computation. Also provides guidelines for teachers to improve problem-solving practices in their classrooms. (ASK)