Mathematics In Nature Modeling Patterns In The Natural World Instructor S Manual

Mathematics in Nature: Modeling Patterns in the Natural World (Instructor's Manual)

Mathematics in Nature

From rainbows, river meanders, and shadows to spider webs, honeycombs, and the markings on animal coats, the visible world is full of patterns that can be described mathematically. Examining such readily observable phenomena, this book introduces readers to the beauty of nature as revealed by mathematics and the beauty of mathematics as revealed in nature. Generously illustrated, written in an informal style, and replete with examples from everyday life, Mathematics in Nature is an excellent and undaunting introduction to the ideas and methods of mathematical modeling. It illustrates how mathematics can be used to formulate and solve puzzles observed in nature and to interpret the solutions. In the process, it teaches such topics as the art of estimation and the effects of scale, particularly what happens as things get bigger. Readers will develop an understanding of the symbiosis that exists between basic scientific principles and their mathematical expressions as well as a deeper appreciation for such natural phenomena as cloud formations, halos and glories, tree heights and leaf patterns, butterfly and moth wings, and even puddles and mud cracks. Developed out of a university course, this book makes an ideal supplemental text for courses in applied mathematics and mathematical modeling. It will also appeal to mathematics educators and enthusiasts at all levels, and is designed so that it can be dipped into at leisure.

The Evolution of Research on Teaching Mathematics

This open access book investigates current issues related to the evolution of research on teaching mathematics and examines up to thirty years of presage-process-product research (PPPR) in mathematics with respect to conceptualization, instrumentation, and design. The book discusses the theoretical and methodological challenges associated with PPPR, critically reviews current research, and explores the likely direction of further developments to identify future paths for research on high-quality mathematics teaching in the digital era. Subjects that are covered in this work focus on the relationships between 1) student learning outcomes measured upon completion of the mathematics teaching; 2) student learning activities in the classroom; 3) interactive mathematics teacher activities, and best practices in mathematics classrooms conducted in the presence of students; 4) pre-post-active mathematics teacher activities such as planning, assessment, and other teaching-related activities outside of the classroom; 5) mathematics teachers’ competencies, knowledge, and skills; and 6) mathematics teachers’ characteristics, including beliefs, attitudes, and motivation. This book discusses the evolution of such research in mathematics teaching and teacher education in the digital era and is of interest to researchers exploring the field of mathematics teaching and mathematics teacher education as well as educators.