Papers and Presentations

Each student will select a published mathematics paper on any topic, read and understand it, write a paper about it, and present a talk to the class. For longer papers, presenting just a portion is acceptable. I must approve your choice of paper.

Suggestions for papers will be distributed in class. Others can be found in my office, in the math seminar room, or in the library. For appropriate journals, see section 7.5 of your text or the additional resources.

Look at a variety of papers before selecting one. This is an opportunity to learn some mathematics that is new to you. Read some of the paper — the introduction should make sense and be interesting. I’ll help you with some of the technical aspects that you may not be familiar with, but I will not teach you the entire paper.

Paper Guidelines

Each paper should be 10 – 20 pages, typed, double-spaced, with 12-pt type and 1" margins. The preferred software is Mathematica, as it can handle both mathematical notation and calculations if needed. I’m happy to help you use this program. The paper template may be useful.

The paper should contain your own title (not the title of the published paper you're writing about), introduction, conclusion, references, and other labeled sections as needed. You are encouraged to include pictures, computer output, and an outside reference.

Your references should use the Math Referencing Style.

See also Guidelines for Mathematics Papers.

Talk Guidelines

Each talk should be about 15 minutes. Time limits will be strictly enforced.

You may not have time to present the entire paper. Choose the highlights, omit some computation or other less important details.

You must use either overheads or Power Point, very neatly prepared. The math office can supply transparencies, and I can help you with Power Point.

Be sure your talk is organized: introduction, the pieces of your paper in logical order, conclusion.

Practice. Get me or a friend to listen. Time yourself.

Practice again.

See also Guidelines for Mathematics Talks.

Due Dates

fall 2007 course description
the mathematical perspective
homework guidelines
summary of proof techniques
additional resources
truth table forms
back to logic & proof
back to Margie's home page