This site contains an exposition of the number Pi. It includes formulas, applications, and activities all involving Pi.
Type of Material:
Tutorial
Recommended Uses:
This site can be used for individual or group exploration and learning.
Technical Requirements:
Java and JavaScript enabled browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
To learn about the number Pi and its applications.
Target Student Population:
Students in a general education math class or math history class.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
None.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This site presents a hands-on exposition of the number Pi. It begins with a measurement activity where students will discover Pi. It then progresses to a probability application, a musical presentation, a formula, and finally an application of measuring distances around the earth.
Concerns:
There is a large graphic element of the site that does not open and just shows us as an empty box.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This site is an excellent tool for encouraging students to explore Pi as a useful and beautiful number. The selection of resources that the author has put together provides the students with a broad expose of Pi that is both entertaining and mathematical. A student who goes through the activities and explores the links will learn to appreciate Pi.
Concerns:
Even though the description on the parent site says that the site is designed for middle school students, it can easily be used for an introductory college level general education mathematics course.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
This site as intended contains text, links, a video and activities that are all clearly presented. A student can easily just read through the material and can also work with a partner or group.
Concerns:
Although the original presentation was probably very clear, the Buffon’s Needle Problem Java activity does not have a digital signature, so only a computer expert will be able to figure out how to make it work. Also near the bottom is a broken graphic file which can result in frustration for a student who has already had difficulty with the Java activity.
Creative Commons:
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