Mathematical expeditions. Exploring word problems across the ages (Q2915835)

The author is a Professor emeritus of mathematics and education at the Pennsylvania State University. He is well-known as the author of the book ``Learning activities from the history of mathematics'' [Portland, ME: Walch (1994; Zbl 1259.97007)]. The matter of the present book is the inclusion of historical material into the teaching of mathematics. The author asked: `Why did mathematics come into being. How was it used? Why is it important?' The materials included in the book are intended to be particularly suited to the classroom needs of middle and secondary schools (in the USA). Therefore, the book is adressed to teachers and students, pupils and people who are interested in mathematics. It collects over 500 culturally and historically mathematical problems which can be used in mathematics teaching. Pedagogical implications are given. There are footprints from the history to teaching mathematics. The problems cover a period from 2000 BC to the 19th century.NEWLINENEWLINE One chapter presents solution techniques of the time of problem's conception and modern solutions, too. Very interesting are problems published in ``Ladies diary'' and in the ``Farmer's almanach''. A glossary explains strange and exotic terms. A substantial bibliography completes the book. The German reader may miss in the bibliography some books with an analogous topic, as for instance: [\textit{H. Pieper}, Heureka, ich hab's gefunden. Berlin: Deutscher Verlag der Wissenschaften (1988)] or [\textit{A. G. Konforowitsch}, Guten Tag Herr Archimedes, Leipzig: Fachbuchverlag (1986)].