Cryptography: The Mathematics of Secret Codes

该项目开发了一个为期8周的中学数学模块，介绍密码学，即发送秘密信息的科学，同时教授和加强相关数学概念的学习。主题包括经典的加密系统和它们通过强大的现代加密系统使用的历史背景，这些系统为今天的电子信息提供保密性。该模块还包括纠正信息传输中的错误的密码和代码。公众对密码学的重要性的认识正在增强，理解所涉及的问题的必要性也在增强。密码学的学习为学生应用传统的数学技能和概念提供了一个有趣的环境。数学主题包括百分数、概率、函数、素数、小数、倒数和模算术。主要产品是一本中学生读物，并附有教师资料。正在开发一个网站来支持本书中的活动。还在为3年级、4年级和5年级编写简明的模块，以及一份教师指南，以便将材料改编用于非正规教育机构，如博物馆和课后方案。该单元的开发包括由来自不同学校社区的经验丰富的课堂教师和非正式教育方案的讲师进行试点和实地测试。评估包括数学家和教育工作者的复习，以及对学生对所学主题的理解水平的调查。

This project develops an 8-week middle-school mathematics module that introduces cryptography, the science of sending secret messages, while teaching and reinforcing the learning of related mathematical concepts. The topics range from the classical encryption systems and the historic context in which they were used through powerful modern encryption systems that provide secrecy in electronic messages today. The module also covers passwords and codes that correct errors in the transmission of information. Public awareness of the importance of cryptography is growing, as is the need to understand the issues involved. The study of cryptography provides an interesting context for students to apply traditional mathematical skills and concepts. Mathematical topics covered include percents, probability, functions, prime numbers, decimals, inverses and modular arithmetic. The main product is a middle-school student book, with accompanying teacher materials. A web site is being developed that supports the activities in this book. Abbreviated modules for Grades 3, 4 and 5 are also being developed, as well as an instructor's guide for adapting the materials for use in informal educational settings such as museums and after-school programs. The development of the module involves piloting and field-testing by experienced classroom teachers from diverse school communities and instructors of informal educational programs. Evaluation includes review by mathematicians and educators, as well as an investigation into the level of students' understanding of the topics studied.