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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. Which group does this coincidence often apply to?

2. People seem to have the most trouble when dealing with what area of numbers?

3. Which phrase is often used incorrectly?

4. Who made one of the most important and yet simple mathematical discoveries?

5. What professional often makes major errors in calculating percentages?

Short Essay Questions

1. The first example Paulos uses about percentages relates to weather forecasters. What is the mistake?

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

3. Where does the author believe most people fit in?

4. Examine the first story told by Paulos in this chapter.

5. Who was the mathematician responsible for discovering one of the most important discoveries?

6. What is the example used to separate numerates from innumerates?

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

8. What do doctors often do that is mathematically incorrect?

9. What is Paulos' suggestion for making math more understandable to the general public?

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

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

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?

Essay Topic 3

What is the common practice of teaching logic in elementary school? To what does Paulos compare the study of logic? Do you agree or disagree? How could logic be best employed in the classroom? How does it apply to every day life? How might one make the study of logic fun? How did you learn about logic?

(see the answer keys)

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