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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 one of the most common mistakes in math?

2. What number is used in the joke about the population of the city?

3. What news professional makes common errors in predictions?

4. What is another name for those not proficient in math?

5. What did the Italian scientist discover?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is that encounter explained?

2. What would be one of the easiest ways to reduce or eliminate errors?

3. What is the example used by Paulos to demonstrate the connections between people?

4. How does Paulos feel when people attempt to diagnose his personality by his astrological sign?

5. Why do people tend to be fascinated by coincidences?

6. Why does Paulos argue about the existence of coincidences?

7. Who is the second famous doctor introduced by Paulos? Which topic was this doctor fascinated by?

8. What amusing example does Paulos use to illustrate the misunderstanding of numbers?

9. What is the last principle discussed in chapter 1?

10. How would embracing scientific notation help people with large numbers?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Paulos takes issue with the lack of proper focus on the skill of estimation. Examine Paulos' reasoning about the importance of estimation. In your eyes, is estimating an important skill? Explain. What can be gained by making estimations? How do you know when your sample group is large enough? Is it determined by the activity or question or are all sample groups the same size? What are the most common mistakes made when estimating? Can you prove the answer arrived upon is correct or incorrect? How? Create at least five examples of estimation as they might be found in every day situations.

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

Discuss how technology affects a person's math skills. Is it okay to use technology at any time? What does Paulos believe technology encourages? Do you agree or disagree? Explain. What is the most effective way to use technology in regards to math? What do you think has been the most effective and/or significant invention in regards to technology and mathematics?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 693 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample