The middle school mathematics texts currently in use by DoDDS, DDESS, and other school systems across the country are a significant step toward implementation of the national standards set forth by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Both subject matter and presentation are designed to address a wide range of learning styles, embrace diversity, and generate true interest in mathematics rather than a fleeting familiarity with a few computational algorithms.

A critical element that is largely missing from these texts is the authentic application of modern technology, especially but not limited to computers. However, because the authors of the new middle school curricula have made such an effort to provide examples of how mathematics is applied in the workplace and in the real world in general, there are a wealth of opportunities already embedded in the current texts for implementation of numerical models and explorations.

These technology-enhanced materials could really allow the students to see that the mathematics is applicable to real world. To their world. Furthermore, by using technology in authentic ways to explore a variety of situations, students and teachers actually use simple versions of the kinds of mathematical modeling tools that are used in the real world beyond the school walls. In short, by taking advantage of the good work that has already been done by the publisher, we have implemented a set of well written, authentic modeling tools and activities that will truly make the mathematics interactive.

These are not "drill and kill" practice modules attempting to build keyboard skills and mousing dexterity; nor are they a collection of computerized word problems to be solved in some linear fashion. Our goal is to provide significant computer-enhanced, supplemental activities throughout the middle school mathematics curriculum that would extend the learning styles and objectives now employed.