Mrs. Turner's Page
by Lori Turner
The essence of mathematics is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple. ~S. Gudder
Pi Day Celebration
In recognition of National Pi Day, 3/14/10, students were challenged to recite as many digits of Pi as they could remember. Many students took on the challenge, and it was a good time for all. The top three places received gift cards to places to eat in Emporia. And the winners were.....
1. Melissa Coats - 81 digits
2. Ashley Buss - 71 digits
3. Shannon Sprigler - 61 digits
4. Kyle Gragg - 39 digits
Thanks to all who participated. The rest of us better begin studying for next year!
Sonya Kovalevsky Math Day at ESU
by Lori Turner
Sonya Kovalevsky Math Day is an all day celebration of women and their love for math and science. Each year, Emporia State University brings together girls in their junior year from around the area to participate in a day of math in honor of Sonya Kovalevsky; one of the first woman mathematicians.
This year four girls were chosen for their success in mathematics in the classroom: Katie Thompson, Taylor Harmon, Elizabeth Karr, and Jenny Karr. The girls spent the day working through activities, problem solving, and making contacts with women who have careers in the many different fields of mathematics. The girls were exposed to the vast amount of future careers that mathematics can open doors to. The girls really enjoyed the experience and brought some of their knowledge back to demonstrate to their classmates.
Technology and Math
As technology changes, students are constantly adjusting. Everywhere you look, students have the latest cell phones, ipods, and gaming systems. This year, the mathematics classroom is changing its look also. Since October, students in Geometry, Algebra 2, and Advanced Math have been learning with the assistance of a permanent projector and smartboard. The student response has been great. The smartpad has many great learning tools including a virtual drawing compass, protractor, and custom lines and shapes. In fact, many of last year's geometry students have complained that they had to deal with my drawings all year long!
