The Journey of Math: Discovering the Past, Shaping the Future

Who Is This Class For?

Ages: 11–14 years old.

Ideal for: Curious learners, history enthusiasts, and math lovers who want to explore math beyond the classroom.

Neurodiverse-Friendly: Designed to engage diverse learners with hands-on and creative approaches.

Open to All: No prior math expertise required—just a willingness to explore and learn.

    
   Math isn’t just about numbers—it’s the story of humanity’s progress. In this unique and engaging class, students will journey through the fascinating history of mathematics, from ancient civilizations to modern breakthroughs. Along the way, they’ll uncover how math has shaped our world and continues to influence the future of science, technology, and everyday life.

Through discussions, hands-on activities, and problem-solving challenges, students will connect with math in a whole new way—exploring its origins, understanding its impact, and imagining its future.

 
Week 1: Introduction to the History of Mathematics

Objective: Understand the origins and evolution of mathematics.

Topics:
Introduction to ancient number systems (Babylonian, Egyptian, Mayan).
The importance of mathematics in early civilizations.

Activities:
Create a timeline of mathematical milestones.
Interactive exploration of ancient number systems through games and puzzles.

Week 2: 

Mathematics in Ancient Egypt and Babylon
Objective: Explore the contributions of Ancient Egypt and Babylon to mathematics.

Topics:
Egyptian fractions and geometry.
Babylonian base-60 number system.

Activities:
Solving problems using Egyptian fractions.
Writing numbers and performing calculations using the Babylonian system.

Week 3:  Greek Mathematics

Objective: Learn about the Greek contributions to mathematics.

Topics:
Pythagoras and his theorem.
Euclid’s "Elements" and geometric principles.

Activities:
Hands-on activities proving the Pythagorean theorem.
Drawing geometric shapes and understanding Euclid’s postulates.

Week 4: Mathematics in Ancient China and India

Objective: Understand the mathematical advancements in Ancient China and India.

Topics:
Chinese arithmetic and the abacus.
Indian numerals and the concept of zero.

Activities:
Using an abacus for basic arithmetic.
Exploring ancient Indian problems and their solutions.

 Week 5: Middle Eastern Golden Age Mathematics

Objective: Discover the mathematical achievements during the Islamic Golden Age.

Topics:
Algebra and algorithms from Al-Khwarizmi.
Contributions to trigonometry and astronomy.

Activities:
Solving basic algebraic equations.
Exploring the use of simple algorithms in daily life.

Week 6: Renaissance Mathematics

Objective: Study the resurgence of mathematical thinking during the Renaissance.

Topics:
Introduction to Fibonacci sequence and its applications.
The development of modern arithmetic and algebra.

Activities:
Fibonacci sequence in nature (art project or study of nature).
Simple algebraic puzzles and problems.

Week 7: Mathematics in the Age of Enlightenment

Objective: Examine the role of mathematics during the Enlightenment.

Topics:
Isaac Newton and calculus.
Blaise Pascal and probability.

Activities:
Basic introduction to calculus concepts using motion.
 Simple probability games and experiments.

Week 8: Modern Mathematics and Beyond

Objective: Explore contemporary mathematical concepts and their real-world applications.

Topics:
Introduction to set theory and computer science.
Modern mathematical problems and unsolved mysteries.

Activities:
Simple coding exercises and logic puzzles.
Group discussion on current mathematical research and discoveries.

Class Features

Interactive Sessions: Each class will include hands-on activities, group discussions, and multimedia presentations.

Assignments: Weekly assignments to reinforce learning, including creative projects, problem-solving tasks, and mini-research assignments.

Resources: Access to curated online resources, videos, and reading materials to support each week's topic.

Inclusivity: Adapted materials and activities to ensure accessibility for children with ASD, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia.