Time for Math Germantown Academy

Task

In this project, you will create a time line with at least 20 to 30 events that have contributed to the development of mathematics throughout history. Use the resources furnished or visit the school library to gather your information. Don't forget to use negative numbers to represent B.C. entries. Design an appealing looking timeline which you will present to your classmates. Be prepared to answer questions concerning your data.

Resources

History of Mathematics: Chronology of Mathematicians
The Math Forum - Math Library - History/Biography
MathPages: History of Mathematics
Earliest Uses of Various Mathematical Symbols

Procedure

Think about some of these issues as you investigate and plan you project: How was mathematics used by ancient civilizations? What names of mathematicians do you already know? What inventions have affected mathematics?
Collect your information by using the resources furnished above. Record the data you have found and the source for your data on the chart furnished.

Data	Source

Organize your information in chronological order. Think about the range of dates for your data and how you could display your data in a unique and appealing fashion. Maybe you would like to draw a preliminary sketch of what your timeline will look like.
Create your timeline. Remember to use what you know about positive and negative integers to help you space your events appropriately.
Present your time line to the class. Invite your classmates to ask questions. Be prepared to answer their questions by using of your timeline and what you have learned in your research.

Conclusion

Your choice of events should indicate a solid understanding of how to extract the most significant information for the purpose of the project. Be sure to arrange the events on the time line to show your understanding of how numbers relate to one another.

This project designed by Sue Negro, for Germantown Academy Middle School students. Technical assistance and page design furnished by Carol Siwinski, Curricular Technology Specialist.