What is Mathematics?

Mathematics is the abstract study of topics such as quantity

(numbers), structure, space, and change. There is a range of views among mathematicians and
philosophers as to the exact scope and definition of mathematics.

Mathematicians seek out patterns and use them to formulate new conjectures.
Mathematicians resolve the truth or falsity of conjectures by mathematical proof. When
mathematical structures are good models of real phenomena, then mathematical reasoning can
provide insight or predictions about nature. Through the use of abstraction and logic,
mathematics developed from counting, calculation, measurement, and the systematic study of the
shapes and motions of physical objects. Practical mathematics has been a human activity for as
far back as written records exist. The research required to solve mathematical problems can take
years or even centuries of sustained inquiry.

It is a fundamental part of human thought and logic, and integral to attempts at

understanding the world and ourselves. It provides an effective way of building mental discipline
and encourages logical reasoning and mental rigor. In addition, mathematical knowledge plays a
crucial role in understanding the contents of other school subjects such as science, social studies,
and even music and art. It is the science and study of quality, structure, space, and change.
Mathematicians seek out patterns, formulate new conjectures, and establish truth by rigorous
deduction from appropriately chosen axioms and definitions

This relies on logic rather than on observation as its standard of truth, yet employs
observation, simulation, and even experimentation as means of discovering truth. The special
role of mathematics in education is a consequence of its universal applicability.

Why is Mathematics important to know?

Mathematics has a transversal nature. If we reflect on the history of curriculum in

general, then mathematics (geometry and algebra) were two of the seven liberal arts in Greek as
well as in medieval times. This historical role supports the notion that mathematics has provided
the mental discipline required for other disciplines. Mathematical literacy is a crucial attribute of
individuals living more effective lives as constructive, concerned and reflective citizens.
Mathematical literacy is taken to include basic computational skills, quantitative reasoning,
spatial ability etc.

It is applied in various fields and disciplines, i.e., mathematical concepts and procedures
are used to solve problems in science, engineering, economics. (For example, the understanding
of complex numbers is a prerequisite to learn many concepts in electronics.) The complexity of
those problems often requires relatively sophisticated mathematical concepts and procedures
when compared to the mathematical literacy aforementioned, also it is a part of our human
cultural heritage, and we have a responsibility to develop that heritage.

This provides foundational knowledge and skills for other school subjects, such as
sciences, art, economy, etc., the issue of how mathematics is intertwined with other school
subjects deserved to be addressed. In some curricula, mathematics is offered independently to
support the study of other school subjects as an ‘instrumental subject’, and in other curricula,
integrated courses which combine mathematics and other fields are offered. Math is all around
us, in everything we do. It is the building block for everything in our daily lives, including mobile
devices, computers, software, architecture (ancient and modern), art, money, engineering and
even sports.