Odd Words, Even Numbers

Overview

Odd Words, Even Numbers refers to the fact that standards of numeracy at all levels appear to be in decline. It proposes that by treating numeracy as a vital aspect of literacy we might be able to arrest this fall in standards. The main purpose is to stimulate and entertain readers of all ages which the author attempts to achieve by showing how we use the English language to describe a selection of mathematical concepts; by explaining many mathematical games and diversions; and by including a large number of word puzzles and mathematical puzzles each of which demonstrates the close interrelationship between words and numbers.

This book is also designed to appeal to those who might deny having any interest or expertise in handling or playing with numbers. Indeed, the book requires little mathematical ability of its readers to enable them to derive fun and enjoyment from its pages particularly if their interest is more inclined towards words and language.

A consistent theme of the book is that in order to be able to communicate effectively – whether in words or numbers – we must learn to communicate clearly and without ambiguity.

Content

Abbreviations Introduction 1 That’s Odd!  2 Numbers, Numerals, Integers, Digits, Figures, Units And And  3 Series and Sequences  4 Spelling Numbers  5 Silent Letters, Silent Numbers  6 Number Into Word and Word Into Number  7 Indivisibility and Divisibility  8 Matrices  9 Time and Number Nine  10 Number Confusion and Large Numbers  10½ Some More Prefixes  11 Multiplication and Number Eleven  12 Dozen  13 Number Thirteen  14 Some Diversions Involving Words and Numbers  15 Non-Specific Numbers  16 Numbers and Words In Disguise  17 Origins and Categories Of Number Words  18 Number and Its B  19 Number or Word? 20 Pyramid Puzzles  21 Magic Squares  22 Some Trivial Connections  23 Numbers Within Numbers, Words Within Words  24 Reversals and Palindromes  25 All The Letters and All The Numbers  26 Fibonacci Sequence Answers: A to Z Proofs and Explanations Glossary Bibliography Index Notes and Workings

The author

Ian Paterson has spent over five-sixths of his life collecting and studying books on recreational maths; mathematical puzzles, games and diversions and the English language. He is the author of best selling book A Dictionary of Colou’ also published by Thorogood.

Review

‘I loved every word. Beautifully written and well researched this is a book for all ages who like a verbal or numerical challenge. An absolute must for those with children or grandchildren who like to be stimulated by words and numbers.’

Brian Goldstein