I can not define what math is with a simple statement. But I will attempt to explain what I view math to be. It is numbers. It is variables. It is arithmetic. It is manipulation. It is also a way of interpreting information. When there is an issue or problem that needs to be solved; the sorting of information and weighing of options is math. The issue does not have to be how much water can fit in a fish tank to consist of a mathematical solution. Math is more than the basic manipulation of numbers, but a diverse way of thinking. Mathematical thinking is rational everyday thinking. I believe that mathematical logic often guides decision making. People are not robots without emotions, but when rational decisions must be made I believe the through process of organizing informations and comparing different options is the essence of mathematical thinking. I very much dislike writing formal proofs, but at the same time mathematical proofs are a great way to form logical arguments and confirm or deny possible truths. Mathematicians are not the only people who like to prove they are right. To me mathematical thinking is math. Pencil and paper and calculators and graphs do not need to be part of the picture for math to be present. Math permeates our lives, regardless of our feelings for it.
Top 4 Math Milestones in no particular order (drumroll please......)
1. Descartes' Coordinate Plane: His discovery/creation was a very beneficial representational tool to enhance understanding and development in algebra and geometry.
2. Riemann's Sum (Calculus): I believe that Riemann's Sum is the basic building block for understanding Calculus.
3. Pythagorean Theorem: Trianlges! I would venture a guess that the Pythagorean Theorem is the most well known mathematical theorem to the general public.
4. Invention of the Calculator: With the invention of the calculator and other math related technologies, new advancements were able to be developed with less time spent on simple arithmetic.
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