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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is often used to explain non-science?

2. Lack of what is responsible for that fear?

3. What great writer is mentioned in this chapter?

4. Which book in the Bible is quoted by Paulos?

5. When does this occur?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the downfall of technology in regards to innumeracy?

2. How is it possible for people to ignore false outcomes in regards to probabilities?

3. Why is estimation important? Who does it affect?

4. Why was Freud's calculation incorrect? What was overlooked?

5. What is the author's opinion of the most common example of innumeracy?

6. How did Paulos overcome his early negative experiences in math?

7. What are the most obvious causes of innumeracy?

8. What is the discussion regarding the number of certainties involved in math?

9. What is most frequently taught in elementary school math classes?

10. What is Paulos' assertion regarding the principle of threes?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the purpose of polling? How is it done? What missteps can cause a poll to be inaccurate? How can the issue be resolved? Give at least three examples of polls, methods, and why they are important.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the two theoretical results as discussed by Paulos. What are they? How can they be explained so that an innumerate could understand and apply the theories? Why are they important? How can the theories be proven? Provide at least five examples of each theory to illustrate your points.

Essay Topic 3

Winning streaks are a big topic in regards to probabilities. What are Paulos' explanations regarding winning streaks? Which examples are used? Do you agree or disagree with Paulos? Explain. Use at least five examples of unnoticed winning or losing streaks compared to public perception and the correlation to mathematical principles.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 560 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample