Overview
Explore the power of place value in mathematics through this 33-minute lecture from The Great Courses. Discover how the abacus and other visual tools can help determine place value, and learn to represent numbers using a "Ten to One Machine." Compare dots and boxes to basic arithmetic operations, and understand why we typically learn arithmetic from right to left. Practice subtraction using dot representations, and engage in hands-on math exercises. Delve into alternative number systems, including binary and ternary arithmetic, and question our preference for base-10. Gain insights into mathematical visualization techniques that can enhance your understanding of numerical concepts and calculations.
Syllabus
Using an Abacus to Determine Place Value
Representing Place Values with a Ten to One Machine
Comparing Dots and Boxes to Basic Arithmetic
Why Do We Learn Arithmetic From Right to Left?
Using Dots to Perform Subtraction Problems
Hands-On Math Exercises With Dots and Boxes
A Binary System for Writing Numbers
Making Use of Ternary Arithmetic
Why Are We So Partial to the Number "10"?
Taught by
Wondrium