Assignment 1 Reading and Writing within the Discipline
In order to write according to the norms of mathematical convention, one must read mathematics. Before you start reading other IAs, I want you to read other (real) math writing with the following questions in mind:
How do you read math differently than history or novels?
How do mathematical authors use or alter the format* to better communicate their ideas?
How are specialized vocabulary and terms introduced and used in math writing?
What is the function of specific examples? What is the function of generalized conclusions?
For you, what is the most challenging thing about reading math?
*’Format’ encompasses many aspects of the math essay, but can first be broken down into two main categories:
Fonts, titles (headings), and equations
and
Tables, graphs, and diagrams
The assignment: List and describe 5 features of mathematical writing. Use examples from the given articles.
from Everyday Calculus by Oscar E. Fernandez
A Shortage of Small Numbers by Ivan Peterson
Seven Bridges of Konigsburg by Leonhard Euler
Auxiliary Elements from How to Solve It by G. Polya
Taming Mathematical Monsters by Ivan Peterson
Chapter 2 from Zero by Charles Seife