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The Evolution of Numbers: A Human Story- MYP 3 Mathematics- Vani Upadhyay

Objective of the Learning Engagement:

Unfurling the SOI of Unit: "Logic helps in simplification and representation to understand the interconnectedness."

Details of the Learning Engagement:

In our latest unit in MYP 3 Mathematics, we unveiled the Statement of Inquiry, guiding our students to explore the pivotal turning points in human history that have influenced the way we perceive and apply mathematical principles.

Inquiry Question: With just the ten symbols, we can write any rational number imaginable. But why these particular symbols? Why ten of them? And why do we arrange them the way we do?

Dive into the fascinating world of numerical systems!
The students were treated to a captivating video that delved into the History of Numbers, revealing the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations that have shaped our understanding of mathematics. 

Students were then divided into small groups, each tasked with researching a specific numerical system, such as Roman, Egyptian, Hindu-Arabic, Chinese, or Mayan numerals. Each group identified key features and fun facts about their assigned system and presented their findings using their choice of media.


To Reflect: Reflect on the diversity of numerical systems and their cultural significance.
Discuss how understanding different numerical systems can enhance our appreciation of global cultures and histories

Impact of the engagement on students and reflection as a teacher:

This activity was an enriching experience for both students and me as their teacher. The inquiry questions provided a thought-provoking entry point, encouraging students to think critically about the fundamental symbols we use in mathematics and why they are arranged in the ways we take for granted. The research phase allowed students to delve deeply into the origins and unique features of these systems, fostering a sense of curiosity and appreciation for the diversity of human thought and its historical evolution. I was particularly impressed with the lively class discussions that followed, where students engaged with the material and each other in meaningful ways.


At the end of the activity, asking students to guess the Global Context, Key Concept, and Related Concepts was an insightful way to check for understanding. It was gratifying to see that many students were able to accurately identify these elements based on their research and presentations. We explored the Global Context of "Orientation in Space and Time," where the Key Concept of "Logic" and the Related Concept of "Relationships and Simplifications" come together to unlock a world of wonder.

The students' reflections on the numerical systems were insightful. Many expressed fascination with systems they were previously unfamiliar with, and some even mentioned how learning about different number systems had broadened their understanding of global history and cultural evolution. They reflected on their experiences and walked away with a greater sense of the global nature of mathematics and its role in connecting civilizations across time and space.

- Vani Upadhyay

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