ABSTRACT

Story is such an integral part of case-based learning, but it might seem challenging to find a compelling story in math. This is because the best cases are usually open-ended with multiple possible answers, and math often involves seeking one answer. There are mathematicians who spend their entire careers studying a single math concept, such as Andrew Wiles, who spent 8 years working on the proof of Fermat’s last theorem. Students can benefit from learning about mathematicians, the struggle and perseverance it takes to solve complex problems, and how to think like real mathematicians. The chapter considers some films that tell the story behind the math, such as The Imitation Game, A Beautiful Mind, The Man Who Knew Infinity, and Hidden Figures. The teachers could develop real-world cases that are relevant to students, such as fundraising opportunities, city planning, or math in sports.