Electronic Proceedings of the Tenth Annual International Conference on Technology in Collegiate MathematicsChicago, Illinois, November 6-9, 1997Paper C035Calculator/Geometry Strategies for Understanding x^(m/n) |
John J. EdgellMathematics Department Southwest Texas State University 601 University Drive San Marcos, TX 78666 USA Phone: (512) 245-2551 Fax: (512) 245-3425 list of all papers by this author | Michael J. Brown200 Camaro Way San Marcos, TX 78666 USA Phone: (512) 392-2503 browns@centuryinter.net list of all papers by this author |
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ABSTRACT
Some students may benefit in the understanding and applying real numbers of the form x^(m/n) from a combination of calculator and theoretical geometric techniques. This paper will demonstrate a seven-step calculator routine and a spiral sequence of similar right trigons for conceptualizing and applying real numbers of the form x^(m/n), with examples. Papers will be distributed which will include specific geometric spiral examples with corresponding coordinates and calculator routines, and a rationale for such spirals will be attached.Keyword(s): geometry, graphing calculators