James Stuart Tanton

The author of this book believes that there isn't enough creative exploration in mathematical education. To remedy this he has produced a recreational math book that promotes intellectual play and adaptability of thought by engaging the reader in mathematical activities.--

This is a collection of intriguing mathematical problems and activities linked by common themes that all involve working with objects from our everyday experience.

All real life mathematics is problem solving. And all those fascinated by puzzles are problem solvers at heart. But thinking mathematically is a skill we have to learn and one which it is easy to forget. Recreational mathematicians and students can practice problem solving in different ways. In this book solving puzzles is practiced in a different way from most books they will have seen before: the idea is to sit with a puzzle or two over a number of days and wait for a moment of inspiration or insight to arrive. That is the true mathematical experience!

"Encyclopedia of Mathematics is a useful reference providing current and accurate information on the subject for high school and college students. Comprehensive coverage includes significant discoveries in mathematics, in addition to definitions of basic terms, thought-provoking essays, and capsule biographies of notable scientists in mathematics - all presenting a wide range of valuable information compiled into a single source. Written in easy-to-understand language, the encyclopedia explains the importance of mathematics to society and includes summaries of notable events throughout history related to the subject." "Featuring more than 800 cross-referenced entries, the encyclopedia includes six essays, interspersed throughout the text, that discuss the evolution of algebra and equations, calculus, functions, geometry, probability and statistics, and trigonometry. The encyclopedia also includes three helpful appendixes - bibliographies and Web resources, a chronology of notable discoveries in mathematics, and an extensive list of associations that provide information about mathematics - as well as a comprehensive index." "Encyclopedia of Mathematics is an indispensable resource that will meet the specific demands of students, interested laypeople, and professionals who need accurate and straightforward information on historical or current issues in mathematics."--Jacket.