A closer look at Bob Stowell’s PolyPuzzle Super Sphere.
NYT Resources Teaching
Math Lesson: Teaching the Mathematics of Infinity
My latest contribution to the New York Times Learning Network is the lesson “Teaching the Mathematics of Infinity“.
Inspired by the wonderful article “The Life of Pi, and Other Infinities,” I put together a collection of resources and activities for exploring this rich, mysterious, and important mathematical concept.
Students are challenged to think about the different kinds of infinities encountered in mathematics, and then to research and discuss some of the classic applications and paradoxes of infinity. They are also invited to think about the infinite quantities in their own lives.
Infinity is one of my favorite mathematical concepts: it is an amazingly powerful tool, as well as a rich philosophical idea. The mystery and excitement of infinity always produces great conversations, some of which can go on forever!
Challenge NYT
Math Quiz — NYT Learning Network
Through Math for America, I am part of an ongoing collaboration with the New York Times Learning Network. My latest contribution, a Test Yourself quiz-question, can be found here:
Test Yourself Math — January 30, 2013
This question has to do with the surge in college and junior college graduates in China. How far behind the US is China in graduations per capita?
Teaching
g = 4, and Other Lies the Test Told Me
As part of Math for America‘s inaugural Master Teachers on Teaching symposium, I gave a talk titled “g = 4, and Other Lies the Test Told Me”. Video of the talk can be seen here.
The theme of the symposium was modeling, and my talk focused on the ways that standardized testing can undermine the teaching and learning of modeling.
By looking at a series of poorly-conceived state exam questions, I discussed the ramifications that these questions have on student’s conceptions of mathematics and modeling, and on the teaching that goes on in the classroom.
Appreciation Art
Math Art: Hypotrochoids
This hypotrochoid art set was the perfect stocking stuffer for a math lover like myself! With a little practice you can quickly produce some really beautiful images.
