Page 8 - Mathematics

Arithmetic
Arithmetic is a branch of Mathematics that deals with properties and manipulations of
numbers. Manipulation of numbers is achieved through the use of basic mathematical
operations namely: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Algebra
Algebra is a branch of Mathematics in which arithmetic operations are applied to
symbols rather than specific numbers. The symbols or letters in algebra are called
variables which represent quantities with no fixed values.

Geometry
Tanzania Institute of Education
The word geometry was derived from the Greek word ‘Geo’, which means ‘earth’
and ‘metry’, which means ‘measurement’. Therefore, Geometry is a branch of
Mathematics which deals with the study of the sizes, shapes, positions, angles, and
dimensions of different physical objects. Moreover, properties of points, lines,
planes, similarities, congruence, and shapes of different regular objects are also
studied in Geometry.

Relationship between Mathematics and other subjects
Every aspect of our life makes use of Mathematics in one way or another. Mathematics
plays a major role as a tool for effective understanding of other subjects. Numerous
concepts in other subjects and fields are described precisely using Mathematics.
Learning Mathematics can also benefit students through developing their problem
solving and critical thinking skills. Note that, Mathematics formulas which are
used to represent and describe concepts and scenarios in other fields are commonly
referred to as mathematical models.

Activity 1.1: Discovering the use of Mathematics in daily lives

1. Recall your daily activities, identify and record applications of Mathematics
in such activities.
2. Use a table or any method of your choice to represent the identified
Mathematics Form One Mathematics and Agriculture
activities and its mathematical skills obtained in step 1.
3. Explain the mathematical aspects you have observed in step 2.

Agriculture is closely related to Mathematics. For instance, when farmers want to buy
seeds, they need to understand the ratio of seeds that is sufficient per piece of land.

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