For All Practical Purposes: Mathematical Literacy in Today's World
Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (47)
What’s inside...
For All Practical Purposes: Mathematical Literacy in Today's World by COMAP is a textbook that provides students with a foundation in mathematical literacy, emphasizing practical applications in daily life. Covering topics like logic, finance, statistics, and decision making, it aims to help students apply math concepts to real-world problems and appreciate its role in various fields. The text is ideal for liberal arts mathematics courses, focusing on engaging non-math majors and demonstrating mathematics' relevance with interactive web features.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
18-21
Length
78 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think understanding math helps us in everyday life?
Can you think of a problem you could solve better if you knew more math?
What are some ways that math keeps us organized and on schedule?
How might learning about math now help you in the future?
What was the most surprising thing you learned from the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Let your child see how you use math in daily life, whether it’s measuring ingredients for a recipe or calculating time for travel.
Encourage them to think of math as a tool by asking how they might use it to solve problems they care about.
Use examples from the book to highlight how math is used in various professions and real-world situations.
Praise their efforts to understand complex concepts, reinforcing that learning is a process and improvement comes with practice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the Importance of Mathematics
Explanation: The book highlights how mathematics is integral in various aspects of life, from nature to technology, demonstrating its relevance and necessity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by recognizing mathematical patterns in their everyday environment, such as symmetry in butterfly wings or calculating time for their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Through examples and practical applications, the book teaches children how to approach and solve different mathematical problems effectively.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children in making thoughtful decisions and solving daily challenges, whether it’s dividing a snack fairly among friends or planning their homework schedule.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: ‘For All Practical Purposes’ encourages children to think critically about the information presented, and to question how it fits into the larger world around them.
Real-World Application: Children learn to analyze situations, ask pertinent questions, and make reasoned decisions, skills useful in science classes or when interacting with complex real-world issues.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Technology
Explanation: The book illustrates the role of mathematics in the development of technology and its everyday applications, fostering an appreciation for innovation.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and value the technology they use daily, such as computers and smartphones, promoting responsible and informed usage.