Mathematics as Problem Solving (Paperback)

Alexander Soifer

ISBN 10: 0387746463 / ISBN 13: 9780387746463

Published by Springer-Verlag New York Inc., New York, NY, 2009

About this Item

Paperback. Various elementary techniques for solving problems in algebra, geometry, and combinatorics are explored in this new second edition, "Mathematics as Problem Solving". Each new chapter builds off the previous one, enhancing the reader to reach new levels of using logic to solve problems. Every topic is presented in self-contained chapters, offering classical solutions as well as Soifer's own discoveries that he found through his problem-solving experiences. With roughly 200 different problems and multiple proofs for each, the reader is challenged to approach problems from different angles, and in this way can experience the beauty of mathematics. Review from the first edition: "Retelling the best solutions and sharing the secrets of discovery are part of the process of teaching problem solving. Ideally, this process is characterized by mathematical skill, good taste, and wit. It is a characteristically personal process and the best such teachers have surely left their personal marks on students and readers.Alexander Soifer is a teacher of problem solving and his book, "Mathematics as Problem Solving", is designed to introduce problem solving to the next generation".The American Mathematical Monthly Originally self-published by Alexander Soifer, 1987 at the Center for Excellence in Mathematical Education, Colorado Springs, CO. This book joins several other books available for the preparation of young scholars for a future that involves solving mathematical pr- lems. The introductory explanations and worked problems help guide the reader without turning the additional problems into rote repe- tions of the solved ones. Shipping may be from our Sydney, NSW warehouse or from our UK or US warehouse, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9780387746463

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Mathematics as Problem Solving (Paperback)
• Publisher: Springer-Verlag New York Inc., New York, NY
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0387746463
• ISBN 13: 9780387746463
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

This book joins several other books available for the preparation of young scholars for a future that involves solving mathematical pr- lems. This training not only increases their ?tness in competitions, but may also help them in other endeavors they may engage in the future. The book is a diversi?ed collection of problems from all areas of high school mathematics, and is written in a lively and engaging way. The introductory explanations and worked problems help guide the reader without turning the additional problems into rote repe- tions of the solved ones. The book should become an essential tool in the armamentarium of faculty involved with training future competitors. Branko Grunbaum ¨ Professor of Mathematics University of Washington June 2008, Seattle, Washington Foreword This was the ?rst of Alexander Soifer’s books, I think, preceding How Does One Cut a Triangle? by a few years. It is short on anecdote and reminiscence, but there is charm in its youthful brusqueness and let- get-right-to-business muscularity. And, mainly, there is a huge lode of problems, very good ones worked out and very good ones left to the reader to work out.

From the Back Cover

Retelling the best solutions and sharing the secrets of discovery are part of the process of teaching problem solving. Ideally, this process is characterized by mathematical skill, good taste, and wit. It is a characteristically personal process and the best such teachers have surely left their personal marks on students and readers. Alexander Soifer is a teacher of problem solving and his book, Mathematics as Problem Solving, is designed to introduce problem solving to the next generation.

--Cecil Rousseau

The American Mathematical Monthly

The problems faithfully reflect the world famous Russian school of mathematics, whose folklore is carefully interwoven with more traditional topics. Many of the problems are drawn from the author's rich repertoire of personal experiences, dating back to his younger days as an outstanding competitor in his native Russia, and spanning decades and continents as an organizer of competitions at the highest level.

--George Bersenyi

The book contains a very nice collection of problems of various difficulty. I particularly liked the problems on combinatorics and geometry.

--Paul Erdos

Professor Soifer has put together a splendid collection of elementary problems designed to lead students into significant mathematical concepts and techniques. Highly recommended.

--Martin Gardner

To assemble so much material of the type used in Mathematical Olympiads, which has been tried and tested there, is unusual. To then present it in a form which develops themes, supported by relevant examples and problems for the reader, does the author great credit.

--R. W. Whitworth

The Mathematical Gazette