Abstract
(1) IN the light of the experience gained in the last eight years or more, it is now possible to estimate, with considerable accuracy, the effect of the numerous changes which have been made in the methods of teaching elementary geometry. The circular issued by the Board of Education last March contains a report on this subject which is well worth careful perusal. The central feature of the modern movement has been an attempt to familiarise the pupil with the fundamental concepts by experimental methods, before providing him with formal proofs. It is now suggested that this experimental stage, by being made more systematic, should replace the first part of the present deductive course. The properties of parallel lines and congruent triangles possess a characteristic which pertains to few, if any, of the later theorems. Once a pupil clearly apprehends their significance, which is possible only by experimental work, he is convinced with absolute assurance of their truth; and this very fact only serves to increase the difficulties which surround the formal proof. In the words of the circular,
(1) Geometry for Beginners.
By C. Godfrey A. W. Siddons. Pp. x + 79. (Cambridge: University Press, 1909.) Price 1s.
(2) The School Geometry.
Parts i. and ii. By W. P. Workman A. G. Cracknell. Part i., pp. viii + 248. Part ii., pp. viii + (233–383). (Cambridge: University Tutorial Press, Ltd., 1909.) Price 2s. each part.
(3) Coordinate Geometry.
By H. B. Fine H. D. Thompson. Pp. viii + 300. (London: Macmillan and Co., Ltd., 1909.) Price 6s. 6d. net.
(4) Exercise Papers in Elementary Algebra.
By the Rev. E. M. Radford. Pp. viii + 112. (London: J. M. Dent and Co., 1909.)
(5) Problem Papers in Mathematics.
By R. C. Fawdry. Pp. vii + 240. (London: Macmillan and Co., Ltd., 1909.) Price 4s. 6d.
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(1)Geometry for Beginners (2) The School Geometry (3) Coordinate Geometry (4) Exercise Papers in Elementary Algebra (5) Problem Papers in Mathematics. Nature 82, 275–276 (1910). https://doi.org/10.1038/082275a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/082275a0