Mathematics is full of mystery. We illuminate the myth to expose two conflicting senses of mystery at work in mathematics and its education practices. There is a sense of boundlessness with mathematics--the idea that we never fully know. There is also a practice of concealment, in which an answer or solution is known by special people who may…

Explains the reasons for low U.S. score results on the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and compares them with students from other nations. Swedish high schools scored highest on the science test, which is attributed to their curriculum. Suggests that the majority of students are taught science that is irrelevant for their…