The Historical Roots of Elementary Mathematics

By Phillip S. Jones, Lucas N.H. Bunt, Jack D. Bedient, et al.

Book Overview

"Will delight a broad spectrum of readers." -- American Mathematical Monthly.
Do long division as the ancient Egyptians did Solve quadratic equations like the Babylonians Study geometry just as students did in Euclid's day This unique text offers students of mathematics an exciting and enjoyable approach to geometry and number systems. Written in a fresh and thoroughly diverting style, the text -- while designed chiefly for classroom use -- will appeal to anyone curious about mathematical inscriptions on Egyptian papyri, Babylonian cuneiform tablets, and other ancient records.
The authors have produced an illuminated volume that traces the history of mathematics -- beginning with the Egyptians and ending with abstract foundations laid at the end of the nineteenth century. By focusing on the actual operations and processes outlined in the text, students become involved in the same problems and situations that once confronted the ancient pioneers of mathematics. The text encourages readers to carry out fundamental algebraic and geometric operations used by the Egyptians and Babylonians, to examine the roots of Greek mathematics and philosophy, and to tackle still-famous problems such as squaring the circle and various trisectorizations.
Unique in its detailed discussion of these topics, this book is sure to be welcomed by a broad range of interested readers. The subject matter is suitable for prospective elementary and secondary school teachers, as enrichment material for high school students, and for enlightening the general reader. No specialized or advanced background beyond high school mathematics is required.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0486255638
• ISBN13: 9780486255637
• Release Date: February 1988
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 1.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Excellent Historical Review of the Roots of 'Earth-Measurements'

This book can only be appreciated by a scholar of both history and mathematics.If you want the real story of the basis of modern geometry and where it had evolved from,then this book will amaze and educate.Three cultures are responsible for producing mathematical greatness;the Greeks,the Babylonians and the Egyptians.The book is recommended for high school students for enriching geometry skills,yet can be read by eager seventh and eighth graders as well.There are three chapters dedeicated to 'Euclid',the greatest of the Greek geometricians.Yet,only two chapters on 'Pythagoras',the more famous of the two philosophical mathematicians.Each chapter has exercises and answer keys for checking.For the price,it's well worth reading to broaden your geometry knowledge and eliminate your hidden numerophobia.

Using math history for teachers and students

I have used this book in the past when I taught a math history course to high school students. In its paperbook form now it is a good resource book for teachers who are looking for projects or extra math history work for their students to do and study. It is easy to read and the math is easy to follow.