Instructions for the second paper (due Nov. 14)

1. Write an essay (containing opinions backed by reasoning) on this theme: How should the history of mathematics be used to enrich the teaching of mathematics (at the high school and college levels)? Pay special attention to the dangers of unintentionally demotivating students: (A) women and minorities (the Dead White Male problem); and/or (B) students who should be encouraged to attempt research careers ("I can never be Newton or Gauss.... When Galois was my age, he was already dead!").

2. Write a review of your "general history of mathematics" book. Would you recommend it as a required textbook for this course?