Short Description:
During this session we will demonstrate how simulations can be used to
help students build powerful ideas about algebraic reasoning.  In this
apprach we will use both computer and graphing calculator based
technologies.

Long Description:
During this session we will demonstrate how motion simulations can be used
to help students build powerful ideas about quantitative relationships,
especially as they relate to algebra.  In this approach, new simulation
based uses of technology are used to make mathematical ideas involving
motion and change visible and controllable.  As a result, the simulated
phenomena become the basis for linking different representational systems
including coordinate graphs, numerical tables, symbolic formulas, and
different notational systems.  In addition, all actibities aare intended
to engage students' real intellectual, linguistic and kinesthetic
resources and interests.  As a result, problem activities that are often
difficult for students, like those involving linear and quadratic
functions, slope, word problems, mean values, and operations with signed
numbers, become more easily understood by all students, even thosse who
typically have little success with such problems.

Workshop leaders:

Roberta Schorr
Rutgers University-Newark, 
Room 158 Conklin Hall, 
175 University Avenue 
Newark, New Jersey;
Schorr@rci.rutgers.edu
Tel: 973-353-5546
Fax: 973-353-5700
 

Walter Stroup
University of Texas-Austin
wstroup@smtp.utexas.edu