using excel in mathematics
DESCRIPTION
Presentation on how to use Excel to increase understanding in math.TRANSCRIPT
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Why spreadsheets?
Spreadsheet software is widely available and easy to learn.
Algebraic concepts are often too abstract for many students.
These concepts take on more meaning when they can be explored in a concrete fashion.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Designing Materials
Demos
Short interactive pieces to get across a single concept. Allows users to put to see pencil and paper work “come to life”
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Review Example: Slope of Line Students tie together the geometric,
algebraic and numerical representations of the slope of a line.
The numeric representation is through a table, with the algebraic representation given by the underlying formulas used in creating the input/output table. The geometric representation is given by the resulting graph of the line.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
More Demos
Parabolas: shows the effect of the values of a,b, and c on the shape of the parabola
Composite functions: shows the meaning of domain of composite functions
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Excel Tip: Sliders
Adding sliders is straightforward – Go to
View > Toolbars > Forms Single click on the slider icon. Position
on worksheet. Adjust size. Right click and select Format Control to describe properties for your slider.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
M&M activity on decay1. Shake up M&M’s and drop the candies on a
piece of paper. 2. Count how many have “m” on top3. Record on paper. 4. Count how many total M&M’s there are in your
packet. This is the initial value. 5. Remove these candies and repeat Steps 2-4 until
no more candies are left.6. Record results in Excel spreadsheet and model
the behavior.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Review Example: Solutions of Equations Using pencil and paper,
solving an equation involves several steps of algebraic manipulation.
Students study a variety of techniques and may not necessarily realize the significance of a solution of an equation.
In Excel, solutions of equations are found using a feature called Goal Seek.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Designing Materials Tutorials These worksheets illustrate a
particular topic in mathematics using the capabilities of Excel
They can be used as in-class activities in the course and can also be used as homework assignments
Instructors may find these tutorials helpful in designing lectures which incorporate computer presentations
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
Summary A spreadsheet can be used to unify algebraic, tabular
and graphical representations of an abstract concept. Gives valuable insight which may not be gained by
just pencil and paper work. Shows students the power of technology to explore
and make conjectures which would otherwise be very difficult or impossible.
Helping students build such insight is invaluable as they move on to other courses and their professions.
Copyright (c) 2009 Reva Narasimhan
More information
Download all Excel materials from
www.mymathspace.net
Click into the Spreadsheets link