The Value of Organization in Math
Organization is a foundation for productivity as well as for solving math problems. In MAT110, applying organizational skills is two-fold. First, it is essential to being productive, for example, when you organize your workspace and manage your time, which allows you to be a successful student. Second, organizational skills are also essential when solving math problems since you must plan how to solve a problem, organize steps in a logical order, and work efficiently through those steps.
Each time you solve a math problem, you are strengthening your organizational skills, which are valued by employers and will help you lead a more productive life.
Each of the following problems will assess your ability to explain how you would apply organizational skills to math problems in real world situations.
Note: This assignment does not require research, but if you choose to use information from a source, be sure to cite it. To help make sure you are properly citing your sources, please review the Strayer Writing Standards.
Question 1
Instructions
The two real-life scenarios below represent the importance of organization in mathematics. Specifically, the importance of being able to find a percentage of an amount without a calculator. In each scenario box below, add your explanations in the spaces provided.
Scenario 1
You are in a store and want to ensure you have enough cash for an unplanned purchase. You need to be able to calculate the sales tax for your purchase without a calculator.
Part A: Identify a situation that would fit into this scenario and explain how you would organize this calculation to solve it without a calculator. Assume a 5% sales tax rate. For full credit you will need the cost of the item, an explanation of how you would calculate the sales tax, and the total cost.
Scenario 2
You are at a restaurant with three friends (party of 4) and need to estimate the amount of tip for your portion of the bill without using a calculator. Assume a 20% tip rate. For full credit, you will need the cost of your meal, an explanation of how you would calculate your 20% tip, and the total amount.
Part B: Explain how you would solve this problem by organizing a sample calculation.
Type your response here:
Part C: Refer back to your responses above for Parts A and B: Explain why organization was important in your thought process and calculation for an accurate solution. You should also reflect on how correct organization of a problem can help you in everyday life. Include real-world examples to support your response. Your answer should be a minimum of three sentences.