Lessons given to a group of mathematically talented eleventh and twelfth graders enrolled in a problem-solving course that provided practice in applying the heuristic strategy of working backward are detailed. Special attention was given to the process of formulating generalizations that represent large problem classes. (MP)

Discussed are trends in performance across the last three National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) mathematics assessments for students in grades 7 and 11, and reports on indicators of instructional activity. The results suggest that achievement in mathematics has taken a modest upturn in the 1980s. (MNS)