Math

Bias detected in pre-election polls

By Paul Katula • Nov 11, 2012

The pre-election polls turned out to be biased a little, and we take a look at how teachers can incorporate some of this information into lessons in statistics and probability as defined in the US Common Core.

Strike zone graphic on TBS playoff games

By Paul Katula • Oct 6, 2012

A brief look at the mathematics (and a little physics) behind the strike zone graphic TBS is using for the baseball playoff games.

Florida schools grapple with Common Core standards

By Paul Katula • Aug 20, 2012

Teachers in Florida and in 45 states are struggling to revise lesson plans as the new Common Core State Standards go into effect. In some states, like Florida, the transition is gradual, while other states drop their old standards cold turkey.

Biochemist, former Miss Massachusetts, has a TV show

By Paul Katula • Aug 20, 2012

In a push to get kids excited about STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), a biochemist started an organization, which is now producing TV segments for Comcast in Boston. Fun to watch! GREAT science!

Quantum computer figures out that 15 = 3 × 5

By Press Release • Aug 20, 2012

Prime factorization of large numbers makes online purchases with a credit card more secure. But physicists at the University of California, Santa Barbara, might have found a way to beat it. The issue now is time.

Voxitatis releases graphic demonstration tool: compare fractions on wheels

By Paul Katula • Aug 16, 2012

Voxitatis has released a second hands-on "demo" in mathematics, aligned to grade 4 of the Common Core. This one is derived from the open-source version of an earlier demo about comparing fractions that may have unlike denominators. Use it as a demo in front of a classroom or study group, then let kids play on their own and explore fraction comparisons.

Voxitatis releases math manipulative for comparing 4 fractions using fraction bars

By Paul Katula • Aug 12, 2012

Voxitatis has released the first of many hands-on learning tools to come, emphasizing our core belief that kids learn by doing and by exploring concepts in a trial-and-error fashion. This first one is about comparing fractions that may have unlike denominators, and it's a lot better than online drills and practice problems. The US Common Core puts this at about Grade 4.