Tuesday, October 14, 2008 - 4 p.m. 1170 TMCB

From: Brigham Young University

Title: What is Singapore Math?

Abstract: Singapore math is based on textbooks from the national curriculum of Singapore. They are written in English and are based primarily on traditional mathematics instruction methods. The Singapore students in fourth and eighth grade scored at the top of the world in the Trends in International Mathematics Science Study. The success of Singapore math has prompted Americans to consider and use the Singapore textbooks. The talk will answer questions about Singapore math. How does the singapore curriculum compare to the \"spiral\" method used in the United States? How are word problems incorporated into the Singapore curriculum? Does Singapore math use repetitive drilling? How does Singapore math teach pre-algebra using bar models. What does Singapore math do for remediation?

Tuesday, October 21, 2008 - 4 p.m., 1170 TMCB

From: University of Toronto

Title: Doubt and Certainty in Mathematics

Abstract: Mathematics is often portrayed as an unassailable edifice of logic in which doubt has no role. While the final results of mathematics may take this form, doubt and questions about certainty play a large role in the \"doing\" of mathematics.
We shall explore this theme, illustrating it with several concrete examples.

Thursday, October 23, 2008 - 4 p.m. 1170 TMCB

From: Actuary, The Hartford Insurance Company

Title: Be an Actuary

Abstract: The job "Actuary" has been consistently rated as one of the best jobs in the U.S. by the Jobs Rated Almanac. What is an Actuary? Actuaries are professionals who provide innovative solutions to business and societal problems involving financial risk. Actuaries have gained in importance in the Financial Services Industry and will continue to be in high demand as companies prepare for future risks. So, what skills are needed to become an actuary? What makes math majors a particularly good fit for the Actuarial profession? Where do Actuaries work and what kinds of projects are they involved in? Join us if you would like to learn the answers to these questions and more.