Mathematics and the World

We can use mathematics successfully to model real-world processes. Is this because we create mathematics to mirror the world or because the world is intrinsically mathematical?

Using the links on the Mathematics sidebar, research Phi, the Fibonacci Series, and the Mandelbrot Set, and consider examples to include in your response. As is the case in most ToK prompts, the issue is not simple, so consider a variety of perspectives in your response.

In light of the questions above, is mathematics invented or discovered?

Greenwashing

Perhaps you know about the term “greenwashing” but it is new for me. In honor of our recent Earth Day, I want to share this environmental slanted corporate marketing concept. It’s a great language issue similar to our study of euphemisms. So, what is greenwashing? What kind of critical thinking do we need to defend ourselves against greenwashing?
Check out this three minute video from “The Media Show” (you need sound and the first 30 seconds has only audio)

Also check out this “Greenwash of the Week.” It doesn’t strike me as great journalism, but what do you expect from a two-minute YouTube video? Anyways, it does make the concept of “greenwashing” much clearer “-)

The Human Mind

Visit this BBC site and discover the human mind by indulging in these creative interactive teaching tools.

What sex is your brain? Total recoil? What kind of thinker are you? What is OCD?

Are these surveys scientific? Is there a way to verify the validity of the conclusions? Does it matter? How much about the our minds can we know through the process of self-examination?

What’s Your Learning Style?

Take this learning style quiz at Edutopia and answer these questions.

1. What is your learning style according to the quiz results?

2. Do you agree with the results? Why or why not?

3. What are the limitations of Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences?

4. What are the assumptions of this theory?

5. Comment on at least three of your classmates posts and be sure to include questions.