Navigating Through Measurement in Grades 9-12 (Print-Non-Fiction). Albrecht, Masha R., et al. (Principles and Standards for School Mathematics Navigations Series). National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), 2005. 174 p. ISBN 0-87353-546-4 ($43.95 U.S. pbk.).
Part of the Navigation Series, this excellent resource contains background information and lesson plans that actively involve students in exploring measurement strategies and techniques. Students consider the logic and methods of ancient measuring techniques for tasks such as measuring the speed of ships and estimating the distance from the earth to the sun. They also explore processes that lead to the development of measurement formulas, and consider the role of technology in measurement and mathematical models. Each lesson includes discussion and assessment ideas.
The supplemental CD-ROM contains interactive applets, blackline masters for the activities, and professional development articles.
Parts of this resource may be used to support instruction around spheres, pyramids, and composite solids in Math 9.
Suggested Use: B30; Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Other Use: Mathematics: Grades 6 to 9; Mathematics 10, 20
Teaching Mathematics Through Problem Solving: Grades 6-12 (Print-Non-Fiction). Schoen, Harold L., ed. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), 2003. 270 p. ISBN 0-87353-541-3 ($38.95 U.S. pbk.).
This volume and its companion, published by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, is a professional research-based resource that promotes a problem-solving approach to mathematics instruction. This approach engages students in making sense of problematic tasks in which mathematical concepts are embedded. The writers address issues and perspectives related to this approach, provide suggestions on how to select and use appropriate tasks and learning tools, and provide examples of the use of this approach in various classroom settings.
Suggested Use: A30; B30; Teacher Reference
Other Use: Mathematics: Grades 6 to 9; Mathematics 10, 20
Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea (Print-Non-Fiction). Seife, Charles. Penguin Books (CDS), 2000. 248 p. ISBN 0-14-029647-6 ($21.00 pbk.).
This book strives to develop the reader’s understanding of the complexities associated with the value known as zero. It provides a historical account of the development of zero in math. Some teachers may find this resource a useful source of background information about the origin of zero, irrational numbers, and how everything is governed by ratios. The purpose of this resource is not focused on particular math content, instructional strategies, or assessment, but rather on engaging the reader in the history of math and mathematical thinking.
Suggested Use: A30; B30; Teacher Reference
Other Use: Calculus 30