Math 70 - Beginning Algebra

MATH 101 – Project Guidelines and Requirements

An important component of this course is a project based on a mathematician, mathematical topic, or math-based application. A good approach is to choose a topic that interests you, then explore the math, concepts and mathematician behind it, as well as relevant applications. You may choose one of the following formats:  An oral presentation in class (6 - 10 minutes). Supplementing your narration with audio/visual aids is encouraged. A paper bibliography should also be submitted in class. This could include the presentation of devices or artwork you construct, as well as more traditional oral reports.  A written presentation (800-2000 words, plus pictures, graphs, or other visuals). A paper copy should be submitted in class, AND an e-copy in .pdf form should be e- mailed to me. I will upload this onto my website for classmates to view.  A web-based presentation. The link should be e-mailed to me, so the class can view your presentation. The content requirements are similar to above (for example, websites or PowerPoints should have content of 800 - 2000 words, video presentations should be 6 – 10 minutes). If you write software, the computer code and comments can be included in the word count. A paper bibliography should also be submitted in class.

Every presentation should incorporate the 3 major components of the course:  Historical/biographical foundation  Detailed calculation – concepts using math at the Math 89/90 level or higher will receive more credit.  Application

However, not all aspects must be equally strong. For example, an oral report on a mathematician might emphasize biographical information and calculations, with a quick mention of some current applications of his/her work. In contrast, if you develop a game, build a device, or create software which involves mathematical calculations, this IS an application, but a quick mention of the historical figures who were foundational to that aspect of mathematics should be given.

A proposal must be submitted for your project. If it’s approved, you’re good to go! However, if you submitted a “serious” proposal, but your project requires major revision (your proposed idea is not appropriate for the scope of this project), you will receive 2 points for the original submission and can receive up to 8 points for the revised proposal by the revision deadline – proposals that are attempted and improved are eligible for the full 10 points.

If you fail to submit a proposal by the first deadline, you may submit one by the revision date, but can earn only up to 8 points for the proposal.

Finally, if you have a unique project idea and you’re not sure whether it meets the requirements, feel free to discuss it with me after class or during office hours before you charge ahead. Math 101 Project Scoring Points Project Proposal & Revision  Is the project suitable for the time frame (15 – 20 hrs work)?  Is the content math-based? ______/10  Are time estimates (for preparation) included? Content  Is the project math-based, with descriptions or calculations at or beyond Math 89/90)? For our purposes, review content in Math 89/90 (e.g. graphing linear equations) does not qualify, but 3 X 3 systems, logarithms, exponential functions, conics, and probability does.  Does the project incorporate the 3 aspects (historical foundation, detailed calculation, application)?  Is there a sufficient quantity of relevant information appropriate for the scope of the project? ______/50

Organization & “Polish”  Is the presentation well-organized and easy to follow?  Is it relatively free from typos, grammatical mistakes, and “technical difficulties”?  Are sufficient instructions given on how to view/use all aspects of the project (especially important for software or websites)?  Does it meet the time/word requirements? ______/15

Originality and Appeal  Is the project interesting and able to hold your attention?  Does the project make effective use of visuals or other media which make the presentation enjoyable to watch/read?  Does the content extend beyond what is presented in the textbook?  Does the presenter demonstrate a genuine interest in the topic? ______/15

Acknowledgement of Sources  Is appropriate bibliographical acknowledgement given?  Is there a variety of sources (most critical for report-based projects, less important for developed applications)? ______/10

Projects which show exceptional quality without exceeding the time/word limits may receive more than the designated point values for extra credit. Project Proposal Form

Name ______

1. Which type of presentation (oral, written, web-based) do you plan to make? For oral presentations, what classroom equipment will you need (e.g. computer, projector, PowerPoint)?

2. Describe your proposed project, including why you’re interested in this topic.

3. What mathematician or scientist will be featured?

4. Give an estimate of the preparation activities will you be doing (for example, research, building, writing) and give time estimates for each activity. The estimates should add up to 15 – 20 hours.