Sir Isaac Newton
English Physicist & Mathematician //
(1642-1727)
Isaac Newton is famous for mulitple mathematical discoveries/inventions. He wrote the book, Principia Mathematica, which includes many mechanics, the laws of motion, and calculus. The Principia Mathematica is termed as one of the most important works in modern science. Many are familiar with his laws of motions, but Newton brought a lot more to the mathematical world. For calculus, in 1665 Newton invented fluxions as a method for solving problems and invented many advanced optics to include the building of the first reflecting telescope.
Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz
Philosopher & Mathematician // (1646-1716)
A very important philosopher of his century. He made contributions to physics, computer science, and foundational work in mathematics. By the age of 20 he completed a bachelor's, master's, and work for another master's and doctorate in law. He also invented calculus. Newton and Leibniz were from two different parts of the world, therefore had no communication. Leibniz brought structure to functions, symbolic logic, introduced matrix representations of a system of linear equations.
Overall, two very important men in mathematics, however never worked together. Actually despised each other and Newton accused Leibniz of plagiarism even though Leibniz published first. We wonder, if they worked together, where would calculus or mathematics be today? Thankfully in this day in age, collaboration is a lot more acceptable!
CALC RAP in the classroom....
My professor introduced me to a rap battle made by two young men, where one takes on the role of Newton and the other takes on the role of Leibniz. The rap battle is one telling the other why he was the one who invented calculus. This inspired me to try to attempt to make one as well. I attempted to make one and maybe one day it will be good enough to share. This also inspired an idea about using music to learn about mathematicians or even concepts in mathematics. There is math in making music with beats and words matching up with syllables. For more of an elementary application, one idea is to make properties of addition and properties of subtraction rap battle. With the same properties idea we could make on with multiplication and division. Students have different interests, and we can connect to our musical population by relating math to music in this way. It also does not have to be rap, but it was a fun example.
Netwon vs. Leibniz Rap Battle:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bzahXT6mu0
References:
Battle of the Giants in class reading
Westfall, Richard S. “Sir Isaac Newton.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 18 Oct. 2017, www.britannica.com/biography/Isaac-Newton.