A study on the teaching of Chinese $Fangcheng$ method (The study of the history of mathematics 2017)

Abstract

The Nine Chapters on the Art of Mathematics has played a very important role and been considered as a classic in the history of Chinese mathematics. We formed a research team which used this material to introduce to high school students the setting of an equation, explaining its problem and method using the Fangcheng chapter of the Chinese classic. The main goal of this lesson plan was to introduce the Fangcheng method of solving systems of linear equations, so that students can naturally develop understanding of the concept of the matrix and its operations, and appreciate the Chinese cultural heritage as well. Thus, helping them realize that mathematics came from real life, we aroused students' interests. Among 33 respondents of the survey, 29 thought this course helped them understand the methods and basic concepts, and 28 said it enhanced their mathematical literacy. Obviously, introducing the Fangcheng chapter and Fangcheng method from the Chinese classic, and linking them to the learning of the matrix, we can enhance students' understanding and their beliefs about the cultural aspects of mathematics.