IntMath Newsletter: radians, graphs, math class

1 Jun 2010

In this Newsletter:

1. Math tip: Radians
2. JSXGraph - Interactive javascript graphs
3. Video: Math class needs a makeover
4. IntMath Poll result - best time to study math?
5. Final thought – Contemplating nature

1. Math tip: Radians

Suitable for: You will all come across radians at some stage. Even if you have seen them before, you can still learn something.

Radians are an important alternative way of measuring angles. Radians are more common than degrees in science and engineering applications. This article has an interactive graph where you can investigate what a radian actually means. Find out more in: Radians: an Introduction

2. JSXGraph

Suitable for: Students (you can learn while exploring the graph examples), and instructors (you can see how easy it is to start creating your own interactive graphs for your classes).

JSXGraph is a method for producing interactive graphs on a Web page, using javascript. There are several advantages over Flash-based graphs. It's great for those who need to see before they understand. Find out more in: JSXGraph - interactive javascript graphs

3. Friday math movie - Math class needs a makeover

When students understand math is a tool for solving problems, and start using the tool in that way, it is less likely to be boring. This video suggests some ways to make that possible. Do you agree with him? Math class needs a makeover

4. IntMath Poll result - what's the best time to study math?

The poll in May 2010 asked readers about their math study preferences. Should we consider a ban on afternoon math classes as a result?

The question and responses were:

What time of the day do you find most effective for math study?

Morning (6AM to noon)
36%

Evening (6PM to 10PM)
24%

Night (10PM to 1AM)
21%

Afternoon (noon to 6PM)
19%

Total votes: 2000

A new poll is up and asks readers what they are looking forward to doing during summer.

You can respond on any page in IntMath.com.

5. Final thought – Contemplating nature

The following thought comes from the famous Greek mathematician Pythagoras. His secretive mathematical-religious community didn't speak to each other much and spent most of their time thinking about numbers and solving problems.

They investigated primes, perfect numbers, amicable numbers, the ratios involved in musical pitch and of course, lenghts of sides of right-angled triangles.

In life, some enter the services of fame and others of money, but the best choice is that of these few who spend their time in the contemplation of nature, and as lovers of wisdom.

Pythagoras (580-520 BC)

Until next time, enjoy whatever you learn.

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