Famous Problems and Their Mathematicians

by Art Johnson

Overview

Why did ordering an omelet cost one mathematician his life? Answers to this and other questions are found in this exciting new resource that shows your students how 60 mathematicians discovered mathematical solutions through everyday situations. These lessons are easily incorporated into the present curriculum as an introduction to a math concept, a homework piece, or an extra challenge. Teacher notes and suggestions for the classroom are followed by extension problems and additional background material. This is a great way to spark student interest in math. Grades 5-12.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781563084461
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	12/15/1999
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	198
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 11.00(h) x 0.42(d)
Age Range:	10 - 17 Years

About the Author

ART JOHNSON is professor of mathematics education, Boston University, Massachusetts.

Editorial Reviews

Each chapter of this new supplemental mathematics text for grades 5-12 presents the historical background of a mathematician or problem, along with an activity based upon the problem and its solution. The projects are designed to be incorporated into a variety of curriculums, and they can be used as introductions into new topics or as a fun way to make mathematics relevant for young people. Johnson, a mathematics teacher at Nashua High School in New Hampshire, demonstrates how the solutions to these age old problems can be applied to everyday situations. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews

Famous Problems and Their Mathematicians is an excellent compilation of the more challenging problems one encounters at the end of a chapter in most high school and some junior high school mathematics textbooks. Each of the volume's 61 chapters represents a specific type of problem. All are written in the same format. A problem that has been given a name is followed by some background information on the creator and the problem. Next come directions, followed by steps to a solution, or an actual solution, to the problem. Also included for each problem is a page or section called the "Teacher Page," which gives further information to help teach the concept represented by the problem. Finally, an "Extension Section" takes the concepts covered to new levels in the classroom. Many different disciplines of mathematics are covered, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and logic. The problems are multicultural, reflecting the mathematics of many nations. Among the familiar problems presented are those of Fermat, Agnesi, and Pythagoras. Also included are problems by lesser known mathematicians, such as Aryabhata (Indian), Abu'l-Wafa' (Islamic), and Brahmagupta (Hindu). A time line giving the name, country of origin, dates, and page number of each problem is also included. This volume is a great source of new and interesting problems; it should be a supplement to all junior and senior high school mathematics courses. Highly Recommended, Grades 7-College, Teaching Professional. REVIEWER: Robert Burchell (Paramus Catholic High School)