Teaching Math

Re “Parental Equation,” May 29.

In regard to traditionally taught math versus integrated math, I was wondering how the quadratic formula, taught in algebra I, might be taught through a hands-on experience. It simply cannot be taught with a tape measure or through baking up a batch of cookies.

Second, what would preclude a traditionally taught geometry class from taking a tape measure and mirror outside (though I am puzzled as to the use of the mirror in this technique) to determine the height of a tree, just as Donna Wyatt suggests that an integrated math class might do?

PEGGY GANATTA

Northridge