THE NATURE OF
MATHEMATICS
Almost all people think that mathematics is
just about…….
Heavy computations
Algebraic formulas
Nerve-racking sets of equations
Math problem
People do forget the real matter about mathematics which is….
EXPLORATION
Have you ever
wondered how well
jeepney drivers give
you your change
when you hand them
your fare?
How about when you buy
street food?
Most food vendors do not
make a mistake in giving
you your change after
buying a grilled hotdog on a
stick for example, without
even using calculators.
Routine transactions like these, knowingly or unknowingly,
are mathematics at work because they involve computing
numbers most of the time.
How much time do you
allot for travelling to avoid
getting late for class?
Are you watching your
weight and your food
caloric intake?
Do you read the nutrition
information from the
packages of chocolates,
cookies, candies, and
drinks you buy?
Consciously or unconsciously, all of these
activities engage some form of mathematics.
Activity 1. (10 points)
In 5-10 sentences, answer the
question below.
What is Mathematics for you?
Rubric
Please bear in mind the following criteria for grading your work.
0 Point : The student is unable to elicit his ideas
4 Points : The student is able to elicit the ideas but shows erroneous understanding of these.
7 Points: The student is able to elicit the ideas and concepts and shows correct understanding of these.
10 Points: The student is able to elicit the ideas and consistently contributes additional thoughts to the core idea.
What is Mathematics?
◦ The word mathematics comes from the Greek mathema, which, in
the ancient Greek language, means “that which is learnt,” or “lesson” in
modern Greek.
◦ Mathema is derived from “manthano” while the modern Greek
equivalent is “mathaino” which means “to learn”
What is Mathematics?
Numerous definitions from different sources are given to
“mathematics.”
For example, the Encyclopedia Britannica defines mathematics as “the
science of structure, order, and relations that has evolved from
elemental practices of counting, measuring, and describing the
shapes and characteristics of objects.” This definition is the one
closest to mathematics that is evident in the modern world today.
Characteristics of Mathematics
A science
of
measures
An
An intuitive
intellectual
method
game
Nature of
Mathematics
A system of The art of
logical drawing
procedures conclusions
A tool
subject
Characteristics of Mathematics
A science of measures – Measurement is an integral part of modern science
as well as of engineering, commerce, and daily life. It is an activity that
involves interaction with a concrete system to represent aspects of that
system in abstract terms if “concrete” implies “real.” It often involves the
representation of ideal systems.
Characteristics of Mathematics
Intellectual game – Is mathematics just an intellectual game?
Intellectual games are games of skill that require significant
intelligence and cognitive effort. These games may be largely based on
a wide or deep knowledge, where the major test is the person’s ability
to remember and recall. Discovering patterns in mathematics needs
patterns of intellectual skills that make one mathematical abstraction
a reality.
Characteristics of Mathematics
The art of drawing conclusions – Making sense of this world
is a natural characteristic that everyone must develop. Making
sense of mathematics using logical thinking is the foundation
of reasoning and proof standard. Being able to reason is
essential to understanding mathematics. Reasoning is a way
to use mathematical knowledge and to generate and solidify
new mathematical ideas.
Characteristics of Mathematics
A tool subject – In many fields of human activity,
mathematics is undeniably a highly powerful instrument of
investigation. Mathematics is applied in the fields of
engineering, theoretical and applied physics, astronomy,
aeronautics, architecture, geology, and geodetic survey.
Characteristics of Mathematics
A system of logical procedure – Problem-solving is an
important component of mathematics. It is more than a
vehicle for teaching and reinforcing mathematical knowledge
and helping to meet everyday challenges. Problem-solving is
also a skill that can enhance our logical reasoning.
Characteristics of Mathematics
An intuitive method – Mathematicians have traditionally regarded
intuition as a way of understanding proofs and conceptualizing
problems. Proving theorems is not mechanical; proving theorems does
require formal manipulation. Yet, it also requires the use of intuition
the ability to see what is reasonable or not, and the ability to put it all
together.
