The Perfect Square [F-12-40]

In this interactive session we will discover some of the secrets of the seemingly simple sequence of perfect squares. Recall that a square is a number such as 25 that is obtained by multiplying a whole number by itself; in this case we have (5)(5) = 25. We will discuss Pythagorean triples, find recursions, and even see Fermat’s Last Theorem.

Sam Vandervelde is an enthusiastic teacher and mathematician who is currently on the math faculty at SLU. He is actively involved in promoting math circles, which are mathematical outreach events that bring together secondary school students and their teachers with professional mathematicians.

NOTE: Bring pen or pencil and paper to practice on; 2) Bring a calculator (optional)