Metaphor Mathematics
I was given a simple pseudo-assignment in my vector calc class. Find the mistake in this mathematical proof stating that the square root of 2 = 2; also read the class policies and comment on one thing you liked, and one you disliked about them.
My response was perhaps a little risky, considering I don't know this guy yet, but once the idea of how to have a little fun with this assignment hit, I had to run with it.
"I am having a bit of difficulty finding anything substantial to which I might take exception. I certainly can't suggest any major re-writes, but I'd rather not offer trivial nitpicks like the 800-800 typo in the grades section. There is one particular metaphor that comes to mind, and while I congratulate you for the color it adds to what is traditionally a rather dull read, I believe I disagree with the implied premise.
When you state:“...that having someone do
your math homework for you is very much like having someone date your
girl or boy friend for you, and about as sensible.” you imply that dating is like math homework.
Having someone do your math homework for you. = Having someone date your girlfriend for you.
Divide both sides by the concept: Having someone [do something] for you.
Your math homework = A date with your girlfriend
Factor common motivations, and likely consequences.
(desire to succeed academically)(improved mathematics skills) = (desire for social acceptance and fun)(increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
Recognize ultimate goal.
(desire to succeed academically BECAUSE IT WILL LEAD TO more social acceptance and fun)(improved mathematics skills) = (desire for social acceptance and fun)(increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
Divide both sides by like motivations.
(improved mathematics skills) = (increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
This is, unfortunately, not a true statement; however since your own skills in mathematics far exceed my own, I'll allow for the possibility that you know something I don't."
Hope he has a sense of humor.
My response was perhaps a little risky, considering I don't know this guy yet, but once the idea of how to have a little fun with this assignment hit, I had to run with it.
"I am having a bit of difficulty finding anything substantial to which I might take exception. I certainly can't suggest any major re-writes, but I'd rather not offer trivial nitpicks like the 800-800 typo in the grades section. There is one particular metaphor that comes to mind, and while I congratulate you for the color it adds to what is traditionally a rather dull read, I believe I disagree with the implied premise.
When you state:“...that having someone do
your math homework for you is very much like having someone date your
girl or boy friend for you, and about as sensible.” you imply that dating is like math homework.
Having someone do your math homework for you. = Having someone date your girlfriend for you.
Divide both sides by the concept: Having someone [do something] for you.
Your math homework = A date with your girlfriend
Factor common motivations, and likely consequences.
(desire to succeed academically)(improved mathematics skills) = (desire for social acceptance and fun)(increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
Recognize ultimate goal.
(desire to succeed academically BECAUSE IT WILL LEAD TO more social acceptance and fun)(improved mathematics skills) = (desire for social acceptance and fun)(increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
Divide both sides by like motivations.
(improved mathematics skills) = (increased possibility someone will have sex with you)
This is, unfortunately, not a true statement; however since your own skills in mathematics far exceed my own, I'll allow for the possibility that you know something I don't."
Hope he has a sense of humor.