Math 445 Geometry Projects

Instructions

• Zack will manage the projects and will serve as a sounding board for feedback.
• Projects will be due during Weeks 9 or 10, exact date will be agreed with Zack.
• Projects can be done by individuals or pairs -- pairs recommended. Three is possible, but possibly problematic. Teams of three must be approved by Zack early in the process.
• Projects can be taken from the project list or can be your own suggestion. Each project should have a different topic. Project topic must be agreed upon with Zack no later than end of Week 8. If the topic is not from the list, email Zack as soon as possible.
• The nature (or "center of gravity") of the project will vary depending on emphasis. Some will require learning new advanced geometry topics, so a basic understanding and good exposition are key. Projects on more elementary topics should show a richer understanding of alternate ways of thinking and/or explaining. Some may involve building of models; this could replace some of the verbal explanations in other projects. Since there are so many options, all idea should be vetted by Zack.

What will be turned in

What will be produced and turned will depend somewhat on the nature of the project, but all will include:

• a paper (about 10 pages, depending on the topic and other parts). The paper should be word-processed and the computer file should be submitted as well as the printed copy. (Allowances may be made for certain tricky graphics file issues; but exceptions should be discussed with Zack in advance of the due date.)
• a 10-minute oral presentation (maybe a bit longer for pairs). The presentation will either be given in front of the class or videotaped for later viewing (perhaps both). Ideas for presentation should be checked and agreed on with Zack.
• Some projects will include models or perhaps classroom activities as appropriate for the topic.

Grades

Grades will be based on several factors:

• Evidence of real learning and mastery of some new mathematics. Worked examples are often good evidence of this. Deeper understanding of smaller topics or some aspect of a large topic is better than superfiical understanding of a big topic.
• Quality and thoughtfulness of explanation in the paper, oral presentation (and visuals, models if appropriate)
• Good writing, neatness of appearance in the paper, care and advance preparation in the presentation, quality of graphics, models, and other artifacts.
• Meeting of deadlines on 2/21, 2/28, 3/14 plus agreed date for presentation.

Due Dates

• Weeks 6 and 7 (ending 2/21): Agree on your partner and together begin to think about topics.
• Friday, 2/21: By this date email Zach with names of partners in team (or single name if invidual project), one or more ideas for topic, and request for appointment.
• Week 8 (ending 2/28): Decide on a topic, or maybe have a couple of tentative topics. Meet with Zach to firm up project plans, including date for presentation.
• Weeks 9 and 10. Present Project and turn in paper.
• Friday, 3/14 (last day of class): Due date for paper and completed project.

Project Ideas -- Follow this link.

This list of project topics may be augmented later.. If you wish for more information about sources or to float an idea for a topic, please ask.