Education: Third R

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Despite these changes, the principles of math teaching remain the same: virtually all modern teaching is still based on Euclidean mathematics (founded 300 B.C.). But a few scholars today are experimenting with a system of teaching influenced by Descartes: algebraic treatment of geometry. This method stresses algebraic proofs of familiar geometric problems such as the Pythagorean theorem—the square of the hypotenuse of a right triangle equals the sum of the squares of its legs. One advantage claimed for this method of teaching: it trains pupils in the analytical method of reasoning, which is the one used in science. New York City's new math course makes a start toward this system by combining algebra and geometry.