In this project you will learn about a mathematician and create a poster display. This project will be due during the fifteenth week of classes (Nov. 27 – Dec. 3). Since this is an “online” class, and some of you will have much more computer knowledge than I, I will be open to discussing formats for the “poster” other than a piece of poster board (such as using Power Point). Also, there will be a possibility of expanding the project, if you want honors credit. There are a few mathematicians mentioned in your textbook. You can also check the WEB; I have a few sites on my faculty WEB page, or just search on Math History. Subjects for you biography can also be mathematical economists, mathematical biologists, etc. I would like for you to choose your person within the first two weeks of the semester – and be sure to OK the person with me.
Samples
(please click to magnify)
Wlliam Oughtred
Archimedes
Your “poster” must contain:
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Picture of you mathematician – credit the source (10 points).
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Curriculum vita or resume of your mathematician. You may be creative, but you must be factual concerning: schooling, papers/books written, mentorship, etc. NOTE: this is NOT a biography. (12 points).
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Timeline portraying significant events of his/her life interwoven with significant world events and contemporary lives. At least 10 “life events” about the mathematician and at least 10 “world events” –not related to your mathematician, but happening during the mathematician’s life span - must be listed on this time line to get full credit. (20 points).
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One page summary of an important result attributed to this mathematician, including relevant graphs and mathematics as necessary (10 points).
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One page letter from yourself to a fellow or younger student, giving your impressions and informing them of your mathematician’s work (10 points).
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Explanation of how other mathematicians/mathematics and scientists/science directly influenced your mathematician and his/her work (10 points).
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Brief anecdote about your mathematician (10 points).
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Bibliography (at least 3 references – at least one of these references must be a book) (6 points).
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Your “poster” should be easily read, neatly organized, and creatively displayed. (12 points).
There are several posters on display in the Math Lab at the Transmountain Campus (Room 1129). There are also a couple of posters in the basement of the Library at Transmountain Campus, and one outside my office (Rm. 1118, TM Campus)
Your poster will be due during week 15 of the semester. Posters may be submitted early.