Cryptography in High School Mathematics

by Dan Tuell and Aaron Smaka


What is the most effective way to teach high school mathematics? This is a question that has been under debate for quite some time. Through our Math 380 class here at Grand Valley State University - "The Enigma Machine", Dan and I have developed what we believe to be a very effective way to teach high school mathematics.

In our research, we found that many people agree that through cryptography we can effectivly teach students a new and exciting way to think of mathematics.

An example of this was found at New Mexico State University. They are actually hosting a seminar at the university on Cryptography and High School Mathematics on Saturday April 18.

We have included a link to our paper and the unit which contains the lesson plans we devised. Please feel free to look at them and let us know what you think of our ideas.

Please e-mail us if you have any suggestions, ideas, or comments. It would be appreciated.

  • Aaron's e-mail address
  • Dan's e-mail address
  • The Paper
  • The Unit and the Lessons