What is Math?

Dear Parents,

Please take the time and read what my colleagues and I have written about the nature of math.

Math is an abstract world of numbers based in a theoretical setting and constructed by humans as a way to explain our natural world. It extends beyond the mastering of basic skills. Math is much more than just memorizing and regurgitating learned knowledge, such as algebraic equations. Thinking about math as merely memorizing information limits deep understanding of concepts. For example, simply memorizing multiplication tables is recognizing a pattern but not understanding what it means to multiply numbers. Math is something that can be applied universally across cultures and disciplines. For example pi (3.14) is a specific numeric value that is always the same no matter where or how you use it. Math functions as a means of communication not only in and of itself, but also across disciplines. In addition to being universal, math is also considered an absolute in that there is only one right answer. For example, if you are dividing one hundred by ten, the answer will always be ten whether you use a calculator or do long division to solve the problem. In the end math governs our day-to-day lives, whether we like it or not.

~ Ms. Murzydlo ~