In applied mathematics particularly, one is interested in modeling real life situations; that is why, one tries to express some actual phenomenon mathematically, and then uses mathematics to determine future outcomes. It may be that one actually wishes to change the future outcome. Mathematics will not do this, but at least it tells one what to…

One of the best known numbers in mathematics is the number denoted by the symbol [pi]. This column describes activities that teachers can utilize to encourage students to explore the use of [pi] in one of the simplest of geometric figures: the circle.

Discusses some surprising properties of the natural numbers set such as axioms for natural numbers and mathematical induction. (ASK)

Presents an activity in which students study mathematically the structure of the most perfect building ever created, the Parthenon. Focuses on the conic sections. (ASK)

Continues analyzing some fundamental mathematical ideas on logic and proof. Provides some sample problems and their solutions. (ASK)

Discusses a town called Chartres and its cathedral which features the figure of Pythagoras. Discusses the Pythagorean theorem and his mathematical contributions to music. (ASK)

Introduces a place of mathematics using a town called Amiens and its Cathedral whose overall floor plan was based on the Greek cross using proportions matching that of the ideal human body, the figures in the shape of an octagram or star octagon, and the symbols in the design. (ASK)

Presents an activity in which students study geometrically the structure of tiling in a cafe in Bristol. (ASK)

Discusses the mathematical features of the Royal Greenwich Observatory. Describes measuring latitude and longitude, pendulum clocks, telling time, and chronometers. (ASK)

Reviews some fundamental mathematical ideas on sets and counting. Provides problems based on those ideas and their answers. (ASK)