Issue8

  • Vol. 11, No. 8, April 2006

    Features

    Virginia Horak
    Using area and ratio concepts to examine why some animals, or people wearing different types of shoes, sink into the surface on which they are standing. Students compute "sinking values" to explain these differences. Includes ready-to-use worksheets.
    Laura Rickard, Colette Wilson
    An agricultural project that teaches sixth-grade mathematics concepts, including measurement and geometry. Sample questions and journal prompts are included, as well as printouts with full descriptions of the process.
    Ruth Bombaugh, Lynn Jefferys

    Monthly height measurements of middle schoolers address multiple mathematics and science education standards such as collecting, organizing, and describing data in context; drawing conclusions; and making hypothesis from these data. Examples of spreadsheets and questions for students are provided.

    Janet Sharp, Loren Zachary, Greg Luttenegger
    How students investigated numerical data resulting from an engineering experiment as a way to develop understanding of reciprocal functions. Includes sample graphs and project instructions.
    Kim Clary
    A hands-on activity in which students convert decimals to fractions, measure, make scale drawings, use algebraic formulas, and use visualization to construct a three-dimensional physical model of a portion of the seafloor. In the process, they learn about sound, speed, and ocean exploration. Ready-to-print student activity sheets are provided along with solutions.
    Robert Horton, Traci Hedetniemi, Elaine Wiegert, John Wagner
    A strategy that integrates eighth-grade mathematics, science, history, and English through thematic study. Each of the themes used in the South Carolina Studies project focuses on a particular landform region within the state. Includes a sample weekly lesson plan from each content area, one detailed lesson plan, and a student worksheet.

    Departments

    On My Mind
    Hedy Moscovici, Deandrea Newton
    Menu of Problems
    David Rock
    Mathematics Detective
    Joseph Martinez, Nancy Martinez
    • Get full access to Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School