Discrete Mathematics Teacher Resources

What's the least number of colors needed to color a U.S. map? The instructional activity begins by having pupils view a video clip on continuous and discrete phenomenon, then launches into an activity reminiscent of Zeno's paradox. A...

There is one bridge too many. A video presents the history of the Konigsberg Bridge problem. To solve the problem, Euler invented a new branch of mathematics—and graph theory was born. Using this new branch of mathematics, mathematicians...

Classic graph theory problems of the traveling salesman and bridges of Konigsburg get the school treatment in this multi-age, multi-level activity. Learners distill a local map down to a few key locations, and then detail characteristics...

Students explore the concept of graph theory. In this graph theory lesson, students discuss a problem on a NUMB3RS episode about the 7 bridges of Konigsberg. Students discuss and apply Euler's two theorems on graph theory about odd...

Show your class the path to understanding graph theory. Scholars learn about basic graph theory using an activity based on the Bridges of Konigberg problem. They draw networks on the playground and decide whether it is possible to travel...

Find the best path through town. The lesson teaches future computer programmers about networks and paths in graph theory. They develop a network of their towns to determine the most efficient path to visit each of their homes.

Ever wonder how the Internet works? The instructional activity teaches scholars the basics of graph theory and how it applies to the Internet. They perform simulations to see how information is sent on the Internet.

Young scholars explore graph theory.  In this geometry lesson,  graphs are used to solve problems in a variety of domains.  In this lesson the term graph refers to a collection of vertices and edges used to depict travel routes.

Discover the right path to learn about graph theory. Scholars use an interactive to create graphs by placing vertices and edges. They determine if their graphs have Euler or Hamiltonian paths.

Eighth graders investigate ant interactions in terms of graph theory.  For this ant interactions in terms of graph theory lesson, 8th graders tally the number of times 8 ants interact in a petri dish.  Students make a graph of the ants...

Students complete math puzzles. In this graph theory lesson, students look at an image and attempt to trace it without picking up their pencil or retracing their line. They see to count the nodes to find where to begin tracing. 

Students explore the concept of graph theory. In this graph theory lesson, students participate in hands-on activities that enforce graph theory. Students manipulate graph applets on the internet. Students create a graphical model of...

Have you ever wondered how delivery companies figure out the shortest route for delivering packages? This lesson is an exploration of Euler Circuits by studying his work with the Konigsberg Bridge and five-room house problem. It contains...

Getting three wildebeest across a river should be no problem— but what happens when you add three lions to the mix? Watch a video that features a classic river-crossing puzzle with a crocodile twist. Viewers listen as the narrator...

Fourth graders analyze the data in a bar graph, pictograph, line graph, and a chart/table and draw conclusions based on the data. They discuss each type of graph, write questions for each graph, and analyze the data as a class.

Learners investigate different online tutorials as they study graphing. In this graphing lesson, students apply the concept of graphs cross curricular and use it to make predictions. They define the purpose and theories behind graphs.

Students, using Pascal's triangle, find the number of items given each day in the song, "The 12 Days of Christmas."

Color the town red. Demonstrate the concept of graph theory with a task that involves determining the least number of colors needed to color a map so that neighboring countries are not represented by the same color. Pupils make...

Show your class how engineers use graphs to understand large and complex systems. The resource provides the beginnings of graph theory by introducing the class to set theory, graphs, and degree distributions of a graph. 

Sixth graders are introduced to the wonderful world of Bats and Clapper Rails. They comprehend and demonstrate the systematic listing and counting of possible outcomes. Students systematically list and count each bat and clapper rail...

Eighth graders investigate the concepts of probability while performing data analysis. They apply statistical methods in order to measure or predict some possible outcomes. The information is collected and graphed, 8th graders analyze...

Students use Internet links that are either accessed directly or in a TrackStar. They answer questions in the TrackStar about finite graphing, digraphs, and matrices.

Students explore the concept of euler paths and circuits. In this euler paths and circuits lesson, students discuss the bridges of Königsberg problem. Students discuss how to determine if an euler circuit exists. Students discuss the...

Students investigate graph theory.  In this secondary mathematics lesson plan, students explore Dijkstra’s algorithm which is used to analyze optimal outcomes.  Students examine a graph to determine the vertex that will result in the...