@JamesTantonMath I think it would be more beneficial for learners to hear exponentiation with a natural number exponent described not as "[base] multiplied by itself [exponent] times", but rather as "[exponent] instances of [base] all multiplied together". After all, 2^4 actually consists of three multiplications, not four, though there are four factors of the base. It's a language pet peeve of mine when it comes to math, and I hypothesize that it's screwed up some people's understanding of exponentiation. An untested hypothesis, but I believe it's a reasonable one.
Absolutely love this James! Thank you for sharing your insights that definitely helps us too!
Simply wonderful. I agree these are the types of lessons that should be emphasized. Love those two starting steps you mentioned.
I really enjoyed these higher level themes and ideas. I'd love to read a book focused around these birds eye views.
James Tanton is the GREATEST MATH TEACHER ON THE PLANET
@JamesTantonMath I think it would be more beneficial for learners to hear exponentiation with a natural number exponent described not as "[base] multiplied by itself [exponent] times", but rather as "[exponent] instances of [base] all multiplied together". After all, 2^4 actually consists of three multiplications, not four, though there are four factors of the base. It's a language pet peeve of mine when it comes to math, and I hypothesize that it's screwed up some people's understanding of exponentiation. An untested hypothesis, but I believe it's a reasonable one.
Mr. James can you please make a video about "what is addition"