YSU Mathest 2004 Essay Contest
The essay will involve the novel:
Contact by Carl Sagen
and the short story:
Unreasonable Effectiveness by Alex Kasman
Available for free
on-line
Both stories suggest that mathematics can be used to explain the
design and laws of the universe and it even provides evidence of
the existence of a supreme being or creator.
Write an essay that supports or refutes the statement above.
In addition, please attempt to include the following:
- Provide examples of mathematicians who have invented mathematical theories that are
originally considered abstract or "pure mathematics" but eventually
become "applied mathematics" when the theories are used to explain a particular phenomenon.
It may be helpful to consult
The MacTutor History of Mathematics archive .
- Comment on any limitations on the power of mathematics to fully describe the
world in which we live.
You may other resources but be sure to include an ample number of
quotes from each story. Include a list of references and footnotes
as needed.
How to Enter
- There is no entry fee.
- Attendance at MathFest is not mandatory to submit an entry.
- Multiple entries may be mailed together.
- Be sure your essay is postmarked (or hand delivered) by November 15, 2004.
and addressed as follows:
MathFest Essay Contest
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Youngstown State University
One University Plaza
Youngstown, OH 44555
Rules
- Submit only one paper.
- Type or print your paper,
double-spaced on unlined white paper, or hand-write your
paper in ink on only one side of lined 8.5 x 11" white paper.
- Leave 1" margins on all sides, and number the pages.
- Limit your paper to 700-900 words.
Papers that are significantly shorter or longer are
disqualified.
- Use a title page with the following information:
- the title of your paper
- your name (no nicknames or shortened names)
- your full address
- your age and grade
- your teacher's first and last name
- the name of your school (no abbreviations)
Evaluation
Your essay will be evaluated using the following criteria:
- your establishment of a clear purpose for writing the essay
- evidence that you understand the book and story
- the effectiveness of your organization
- the clarity, conciseness, and freshness of your language
Prizes
PRIZES! will be awarded to the first, second, and third place entries at
at MathFest!
Permissions
Entries cannot be returned.
All entries become property of YSU.
The University reserves
the right to publish any of the entries submitted,
with credit given to the authors.
MathFest
mathfest@math.ysu.edu
