Multicultural Mathematics Math 1011 Section 102 Fall 2004 Dr. Rachel Hall Saint Joseph's University Mayan Mathematics & The Dresden Codex

Welcome to the class web site for Multicultural Mathematics!

Topics we'll cover this semester: 

• Introduction to mathematics and ethnomathematics. Differing definitions of mathematics, the background to ethnomathematics, overview of world mathematics.
• Number systems and arithmetic.  Spoken numbers, body counting, counting devices, written numbers, bases, modular arithmetic, algorithms for arithmetical operations
• Beyond the counting numbers.  Egyptian fractions, sexagesimals and decimals, rational and irrational numbers, estimating square roots, estimating pi
• Special topics in mathematics, art, and music.
• Symmetry in math and art.  Symmetry, strip patterns, wallpaper patterns, fractals
• The mathematics of sona drawings and Celtic knots.  Art and the GCD and LCM, traceable graphs, knot theory
• The mathematics of drumming.  Rhythm and Fibonacci numbers, Pascal's triangle, the GCD and LCM, the algebra of composition

• Syllabus.Includes course description, course expectations, and grading policies.
• Assignments.  Readings, practice problems, and homework to be turned in.
• Past Quizzes.  All the quizzes I've given so far.
• Preparing for Test 1.  Essay questions and tips.
• Preparing for Test 2.  Essay questions and tips.
• Preparing for Test 3 (final exam).  Sample questions and essay questions.
• Projects.. Description of class projects.
• Project 1, due October 4th, 2004.
• Project 2, due December 10th, 2004.
• Drawing Wallpaper Patterns.  Applet by Helena Verrill.
• Abcdrums.  Drum pattern generator by Adlai Waksman.
• Tutoring. My recommendations & your options.

Rachel W. Hall / Department of Math and Computer Science / Saint Joseph's University / rhall@sju.edu