The concepts and instruments required for the teaching and learning of geometric optics are introduced in the didactic process without a proper didactic transposition. This claim is secured by the ample evidence of both wide- and deep-rooted alternative concepts on the topic. Didactic transposition is a theory that comes from a reflection on the…

Before the 19th century the idea of more than three dimensions was exceptional. During the 19th century, however, geometry was revolutionized and new branches were developed. This revolution also created the idea of the possibility of a n-dimensional geometry or space; flatland, i.e. n = 2, was a consequence of this new thinking. In 1884 the…

Discusses Napoleon's involvement with mathematics and education. Describes two geometric constructions dividing the circumference of a circle into four equal parts and finding the center of a given circle. Summarizes the establishment of the Institute of Egypt and the educational system in France. Twenty-seven references are listed. (YP)

This book, photographically reproduced from its original 1942 edition, is an extended essay on one of the three problems of the ancients. The first chapter reduces the problem of trisecting an angle to the solution of a cubic equation, shows that straightedge and compasses constructions can only give lengths of a certain form, and then proves that…

Discussed contributions to the field of astronomy made by ancient Egyptians. Provides examples of how some of the observations made were applied to science. The use of geometry is illustrated by several calculations of celestial alignment. (TW)

Discusses early Euclidean cosmologies, inadequacies in classical Euclidean cosmology, and the development of non-Euclidean cosmologies. Explains the present state of the theory of cosmology including the work of Dirac, Sandage, and Gott. (CP)

Features articles about physical therapy and its history as related to geometry through measurement of body angles. Includes open-ended worksheets for mathematics activities that introduce students to angle measurement, data analysis, and mathematical tools. Activities include: (1) Making Your Own Goniometer; (2) Range of Motion; (3) Active versus…

Discusses the calculation of pi by means of experimental methods. Polygon circle ratios, Archimedes' method, Buffon's needles, a Monte Carlo method, and prime number approaches are used. Presents three BASIC programs for the calculations. (YP)