Introduction to Mathematics Mathematics for Today and Tomorrow Mathematics continues to grow at a rapid rate, spreading into new fields and creating new applications in its open-ended search for patterns. Several factors—growth of technology, increased applications, impact of computers, and expansion of mathematics itself—have combined in the past century to extend greatly both the scope and the application of the mathematical sciences. The changes must be reflected in the schools if our students are to be well prepared for tomorrow’s world. What is Mathematics? Mathematics is a language and science of patterns. As a language of patterns, mathematics is a means for describing the world in which we live. In its symbols and vocabulary, the language of mathematics is a universal means of communication about relationships and patterns. As a science of patterns, mathematics is a mode of inquiry that reveals fundamental understandings about order in our world. This mode of inquiry relies on logic and employs observation, simulation, and experimentation as means of challenging and extending our current understanding.