Commentary: Math Autobiography

 

            I like to give a math autobiography as a first assignment in my introductory courses.  For students, it’s usually an odd way to look at their lives, but the assignment makes for some interesting conversation in the class when it’s due.  Besides giving the students an opportunity to reflect and giving me some information about each student, the assignment gives students a private way to communicate concerns to me right away.  The questions make for a coherent essay, if students answer them in order (which, unfortunately, many do -- makes for some similar essays). 

         I always ask for an extra copy, however, to read again when I’ve learned students’ names!

            This version is general.  Here’s a version more specific to prospective teachers.

 

 

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