Do the Math : Why Getting Your Geek on Is the Coolest, Most Empowering Thing You Can Do

In a country that teaches dry, antiquated math curriculum, students often adopt a pervasively negative attitude towards math-a mindset of "just get through it." With a lack of positive role models, minorities especially flounder when it comes to the subject. Black students score notably lower on national tests and represent about one percent of people awarded PhDs in math-related fields. A fragile grasp on math handicaps people not only from attaining promising and highly-paid jobs, but also from making educated decisions in everyday life. So why does society continue to proliferate a fearful attitude towards math literacy? Do the Mathseeks to remedy problems that prevent people from enjoying math by presenting it in short chapters that depict its surprising, remarkable, and little-known uses in everyday life. Examples from rap music, sports, television shows will be familiar and relevant to readers of all races. Readers will not only see how Barack Obama used numbers to win the presidency, but will be able to explain how he did it. Aris Winger also includes personal anecdotes describing how math propelled his rise from hardship. Taken together, the chapters make a compelling argument for math literacy, not only for its own pleasure, but as a necessity to flourish in life. In the vein of Danica McKellarrs"sNew York TimesbestsellersMath Doesnrs"t SuckandKiss My Math,Do the Mathwill show people, especially minorities, how to embrace math and use it to enhance life. It teaches people to question numbers instead of naively accepting them. And it shows that the Steve Urkels and Carlton Banks of the world arenrs"t so "uncool" and, for those black kids who do well in math, it makes the walk home feel a little bit better, too.