A Platter of Visual Proofs
A Lecture by Dr. Sarmad Abbasi
A picture is worth a thousand words, and visual elements can indeed generate interest in mathematics. Introducing “visual proofs” to students can explain why certain patterns exist in mathematical structures and numbers, even though mathematicians do not accept them as formal proofs. Unfortunately, this engaging style of presenting mathematical ideas is often overlooked in the education system.
This talk will present a sample of visual proofs that are simple, intuitive, and familiar to most. These visual proofs have been successfully used in lectures for students from 6th to 10th grade. The intended audience includes teachers, parents, and math enthusiasts who want to inspire a love for mathematics in the younger generation.
The main goal of this lecture is to develop a repertoire of visual proofs and handouts that can bring joy and excitement to mathematics classrooms. The discussion will cover the proofs themselves and how they can be effectively used as pedagogical tools in teaching.
We will include a charming proof of summing up a particular geometric series due to the great master Archimedes and the so-called ”two cake” proof of Pythagoras’ theorem.
About the Speaker:
Dr. Sarmad Abbasi hails from Khairpur Mir, Sindh, and completed his 12th grade at Public School Hyderabad. He pursued higher education in mathematics and theoretical computer science at the University of Georgia and Rutgers University, earning a PhD in computer science. For over 20 years, he has taught at various universities in Pakistan. Dr. Sarmad has a deep interest in science, the philosophy of science, and education. He launched Math-Cat, a YouTube channel promoting mathematics and theoretical computer science, and is affiliated with the EdTech company Educative. In his spare time, he conducts research, reads philosophy and literature, and occasionally lectures on these subjects.
This session is free and open to all. Just visit the venue to attend it.
The Black Hole
Plot 5H, Street 100, G-11/3, Islamabad.
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