Synopsis

This unit explores reasons for studying mathematics, practical applications of mathematical ideas and aims to help you to recognise mathematics when you come across it. It introduces the you to the graphics calculator, and takes you through a series of exercises from the Calculator Book, Tapping into Mathematics With the TI-83 Graphics Calculator. The unit ends by asking you to reflect on the process of studying mathematics. In order to complete this unit you will need to have obtained a Texas Instruments TI-83 calculator and the book Tapping into Mathematics With the TI-83 Graphics Calculator (ISBN 0201175479).

Table of Contents

Introduction
Learning outcomes
Why study mathematics?
1 Aims
1.1 Mathematics and you
Learning through video clips
Maths as others see it
1.2 Recognizing mathematics
Examples 1 and 2
Examples 3 and 4
Recognizing mathematics, continued
Investigating the investigation
Packaging the pictures
Puzzling out the Soma cube
Does it make sense?
When it doesn't make sense …
Introducing algebra
1.3 What is a mathematician?
Stressing and ignoring
A mathematical muse
2 Aims
The history of the calculator
Using your calculator
Glancing ahead
A pressing engagement
Pressing onwards
3 Aims
3.1 Spotlight on study
3.2 Keeping a record: a learning file
3.3 Skills in learning mathematics
Unit summary and outcomes
Next steps
Acknowledgements

 

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