Project topics

It is possible to supplement your final grade with one extra credit project, to be completed in the fourth quarter. Please note: the project outline must be submitted by the end of the third quarter.

You may add from two to ten points to your fourth quarter grade with the successful completion of the project. I'll post a rubric here at a later date.

It depends on the project and how many points you're looking for. But you should expect a writing component of up to 1,000 words, or a combination of writing and some other deliverable. Those looking for the maximum credit are expected to learn some new mathematics not taught in the classroom.

Whatever interests you and meets the criteria for credit. I must approve the project before you begin.

There will be several deadlines to meet at various stages of your project. We'll decide on a timeline that fits your needs and the nature of your work.

I will allow teams of up to three people. However, extra credit points will be awarded to members of the group based on their individual contribution to the work.

Project topics must be chosen by the end of the third quarter.

Think about a topic and talk to me. If you don't have an idea, look at the samples below, or we'll come up with something else. Then fill out the project outline.

See the list below. Remember, this is not a complete list -- you may choose any topic you wish.

The intersection of math and music. There are a good many topics here worth exploring, such as harmonics and rhythmic structures. Compositions based on some mathematical idea or framework are encouraged. See the Dartmouth site, below.

The intersection of math and art. Fertile ground here, as well. And as above, compositions based on some mathematical idea or framework are encouraged. Again, see the Dartmouth site, below.

History and applications of pi. An excellent project for the student with an interest in world history; try "A History of Pi" by Petr Beckmann for pi's role in the history of math. There are many sites on the web as well.

History of zero. Zero may be the most fascinating number of all. Try "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Siefe as a start; the first few chapters are not that difficult a read.

Techniques of mental math. Interested in doing math in your head? This project would include a paper and a live demonstration of what you've learned. Try "Math Magic: The Human Calculator Shows How to Master Everyday Math Problems in Seconds" by Scott Flansburg.

Number systems. Explore and compare written systems in different languages and cultures.

Mathematics in navigation. An excellent topic for those studying geometry.

Geometric model-building. Construct and discuss a complex geometric structure.

Architectural modeling. In the spirit of Buckminster Fuller, design a building based on a single or several mathematical concepts, such as the Golden Ratio.

Cryptography. How are credit cards encrypted? How can you construct a cipher of your own?

The mathematics of poker. So exactly what are your chances of hitting that flush?

Number theory. For those wanting to take a look at graduate-level math and haven't taken calculus. I recommend this only to Algebra II C1 students.

Game theory. A difficult subject, but lots of options. Look at the book "A Gentle Introduction to Game Theory" by Saul Stahl to see what it involves.

Math and Theater. See Fermat's Last Tango, Tom Stoppard's Arcadia, Proof.

Dartmouth's Math Across the Curriculum Project A great resource for books on math and art, architecture, literature, music, history, etc.