Mathematical Problem 
Solving with Telecommunication

 Using the Mathmagic Project as the Springboard for Problem Solving 
Exploration


Gail Lauinger

Mendocino Grammar School

California State Framework Area:
Mathematics

Grade Level:
4th Grade

Length: On-Going

Produced in conjunction with the NASA NREN K-12 Partner School 
Program and the California Telemation Project

I. INTRODUCTION
This curriculum project utilizes the Mathmagic project. The 
Mathmagic project is a K-12 telecommunications project developed in 
El Paso, TX that provides a strong motivator for students to use 
computer technology while increasing problem-solving strategies and 
communication skills. Mathmagic posts mathematical challenges and 
enables each team to dialogue through telecommunication with a team 
from another location.

Problems (called challenges) chosen as Mathmagic problems will be 
based on the following criteria:

1. Challenges capture student interest and imagination.

2. Solutions to the challenges are not immediately obvious.
	
3. Challenges can be solved using more than one strategy.
	
4. Challenges are within the computational skill level of the students.
	
5. The solution time is reasonable to allow for exchanges between 
teams and postings of agreed-upon solutions.
	
6. There may be more than one correct solution. Diversity in the way 
challenges are approached is encouraged.

7. Challenges are defined well enough so that teams know when a 
solution has been reached.


Purpose:

To improve math problem solving, dialoging and writing through the 
use of telecommunications. 

The Mathematics Framework emphasizes collaboration, learning to 
understand and accept different points of view in order to choose 
among different strategies. The framework states that students in a 
group are more likely to persist and succeed and that mathematical 
power is enhanced by a positive disposition - an attitude of adventure, 
curiosity and confidence. The framework also emphasizes a program 
that helps students develop a habit of draft, feedback and revision.


II. STUDENT OUTCOMES
Students will:

1. meet team members from another location and exchange 
personal/school/city information.

2. understand the use of telecommunications and use e-mail to 
exchange data with their team members

3. learn to evaluate problems in collaboration with their team by 
choosing problems that interest and challenge them 

4. work cooperatively with their group to solve math problems

5. learn to evaluate their math work, accept feedback and revise
	
6. learn to post their teamÕs solutions on a listserv


III. ACTIVITIES

Beginning
	--Cooperative groups  are formed and begin to write their 
introduction of themselves  

--Teacher registers teams with Mathmagic

--Teams meet their telecommunication team members and exchange 
introductions

--Students are introduced to portfolio - log of ideas and dialogue, 
evidence of their level of participation and collection of their solutions

--Each team will receive a calendar of 13 scheduled challenges and dates 
due (each team may choose up to 8 of the 13 questions, a minimum of  
7 required)


On-going

--As challenges are posted, teams discuss, and determine participation 
on that question

--Teams will dialogue on strategies and possible solutions. 

--Class team members will present their strategies to class for feedback 

--Upon agreement, a team will post their solution using the required 
format:
1. Restate the problem. Simplify it.
2. Explain the strategies used.
3. State the solution(s).
4. Check your solution for accuracy.
5. Extend the problem. (optional)


IV. ASSESSMENT
Ongoing observation by teacher.

Presentations to the class.

Final assessment is the completion of a portfolio. The portfolio will 
include:
1. personal introduction
2. log of the individual studentÕs ideas and strategies for solution for 
each challenge and evidence of participation 
3. evidence of interactive problem solving with telecommunication 
team members
4. final team solution(s) for each challenge
5. opinion paper - evaluating challenges, including best challenge and 
rationale for choice