I-MATH

Introduction

New ways of looking at mathematics, for teachers . . . and for students

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Purpose and description

I-MATH is set of web pages created for mathematics teachers and students. The purpose of these web pages is to assist mathematics teachers and students in learning and enjoying mathematics.

Hands-on investigations in mathematics, and exploration of the vast resources of the internet can create opportunities for students to collaborate, and to communicate their discoveries; to become sources of mathematical information as well as recipients. The "I" in I-Math stands for Imagination, Investigation, Interaction and Illumination, all of which are essential aspects of teaching and learning.

The NCTM Standards suggest "Instructional programs from pre kindergarten through grade 12 should enable all students to organize and consolidate their mathematical thinking through communication: communicating their mathematical thinking coherently and clearly to peers, teachers, and others; analyze and evaluate the mathematical thinking and strategies of others; use the language of mathematics to express mathematical ideas precisely. As students are asked to communicate about the mathematics they are studying, to justify their reasoning to a classmate or to formulate a question about something that is puzzling--they gain insights into their thinking. In order to communicate their thinking to others, students naturally reflect on their learning and organize and consolidate their thinking about mathematics. Students should be encouraged to increase their ability to express themselves clearly and coherently. The ability to write about mathematics should be particularly nurtured across the grades. By working on problems with classmates, students also have opportunities to see the perspectives and methods of others. They can learn to understand and evaluate the thinking of others and to build on those ideas. They may benefit from the insights of students who solve the problem using a visual representation. Students need to learn to weigh the strengths and limitations of different approaches, thus becoming critical thinkers about mathematics."

The mathematical content of these pages is predominantly Geometry, but the principles and practices are applicable to all levels and topics of mathematics, at all grade levels. These web pages are intended to supplement and enhance students' and adults' interest and understanding of mathematics, and not to replace the mathematics curriculum taught in schools. The content is intended for 8th through 12 grade students and teachers. Students and teachers alike can benefit from these web pages, as well as all of the other resources provided on the web. The Internet and World Wide Web provide limitless opportunities for learning.