Basic Information

• Course Description: Since at least the time of the Rhind papyrus, puzzles have been used to teach, convey, and motivate diverse areas of mathematics. In this course we will engage some of the most fascinating problems in recreational mathematics. Rather than be observers of mathematics, students in this seminar will be required to feel what it is like to do mathematics, to strain their minds and imaginations under the weight of a challenging problem. There are no mathematical prerequisites for this course, but students should be interested in studying mathematics.
• Instructor: Tom Lewis.
• Office & Phone Numbers: 205-O Riley Hall, (864) 294-3640.
• E-mail: tom.lewis@furman.edu
• Office Hours: 9:30-10:30 MWF, 10:00-11:00 TR
• Text: Problem Solving Through Recreational Mathematics, Averbach and Chein; How to Solve It, Polya.
• Required elements
  • Group problem sets (40%). The problem sets will be due at the beginning of class on the presentation days.
  • 3 class presentations (each approximately 7-10 minutes; 15%)
  • Biweekly writing assignments. These assignments will be based in part on the readings from Polya's book (see calendar for dates; 15%)
  • Midterm exam (March 19; 15%)
  • Final exam (April 30; 15% )
• Study Questions: Click here for the Polya study questions. Keep your responses collected in a journal. I will periodically collect your journals.
• Teams: Click here for the chapter teams and presenters.
• Writing projects: Click here for information.
• Disabilities Policy: Students with disabilities who need academic accommodations should contact the Disabilities Services Coordinator in a timely manner prior to contacting me during my office hours. Here is a link to the Disabilities Services web page: http://www.furman.edu/disability/. Contact information can be found there.

Calendar