A Topological Problem for the Ninth-Grade Mathematics Laboratory

Abstract

It is often difficult to maintain an exciting and interesting atmosphere in a ninth-grade general mathematics class. Emphasis on computational skills that students have studied many times but not yet mastered can become routine and ineffective. Lagging student interest and enthusiasm can discourage a teacher from continuing the proper time-consuming preparations necessary to make stimulating and academically satisfying classes. New approaches to old ideas are not always embraced by the class. Good ideas are not easy to find.