Lesson Preview | Objectives

Lesson Preview

What is mathematics? Mathematics has been described as:

  • a language

  • a science

  • a tool

  • an art

A LANGUAGE - The same mathematical symbols are used in all the countries of the world. These symbols are used to simplify and clarify. For example, "three units plus four units equal seven units" can be simplified to 3 + 4 = 7. These numbers are used in countries where different languages are spoken. The language of math has aided the growth of technology.  A Glossary is included for the many terms used in the language of Mathematics.

A SCIENCE - Math requires reasoning to reach conclusions through the use of logic. In 1907, Albert Einstein published his special Theory of Relativity. This mathematical equation (E = mc2) defines the relationship between energy and mass, and has aided the development of atomic energy, space travel, and modern technology.

A TOOL - We use mathematics to solve problems in business, finance, science, and other fields of endeavor.

An ART - Its patterns, symmetry, and relationships are reflected throughout the art world.

To learn math, you must learn the language of math. You must know the meanings of its symbols. Once you learn them, you will use math as a problem solving tool.

Many of today's jobs require mathematical knowledge. In fact, it's hard to imagine a job which will not require you to use math, whether you are a cook or a rocket scientist. Learning math is a good way to get what you want out of life. Once you believe this, learning math becomes a lot easier.

In this lesson, we will explore the development of mathematics and its language.

We will start at the very beginning.

Objectives  (top)

When you complete this lesson, you will be able to:

  1. Recognize that mathematics has been invented and developed by people all over the world. And today, it is still being developed.
     
  2. Understand that the system of numbers used today in most of the world is the decimal system which has a base of 10.
     
  3. Recognize the meaning of several of the signs and symbols used in mathematics.
     
  4. Recognize the application of literal numbers, along with numerical numbers.
     
  5. Understand what subject matter is involved in the various fields of mathematics (e.g. arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, etc.).
     
  6. Comprehend the meaning of the following terms:
  • digit (dij'-et) - a digit is a numerical symbol that stands for a number. The digits in math are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The number 43 has two digits; it has the digit 4 and the digit 3.
       
  • integer (int' ejer) - A whole number. Thus 572, - 434, and 75,926 are all integers. Numbers may be classified as integers and fractions. 

 

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