Math Topics
Generating proofs: Choosing a proof strategy and becoming unstuck.
Writing Topics
Writing proofs: The role of proof in math, norms of proof writing, proof generation strategies.
Description
For the statements in Homework 1 Problem 1, practice choosing a proof strategy and generating a proof. Recitation begins with a summary of the role of proof in the doing of mathematics, illustrated by the Mathematics Reasoning Diagram (PDF).
Pre-Recitation Assignment
Read about strategies for generating and writing proofs.
Instructions: The resource Proofs in Mathematics and Proof Strategies (PDF) is intended to help you to write proofs throughout the semester, so familiarize yourself with it. Pay particular attention to the strategies for generating proofs, and proofs by induction. Induction proofs and pigeonhole proofs are the first proofs you are likely to use this semester. Then complete the following questions:
Question 1: What is the color of all cows?
Question 2: After reading this handout, what questions do you have about writing proofs?
Post-Recitation Assignment
Write up proofs: do Problems 1 & 2 of Homework 1 (PDF).
