GEOMETRY and the Art of Design

An introduction to Geometry for non-majors

1 About This Book

This textbook is written for anyone who is curious about geometry, especially non-mathematics majors.

Geometry appears in design, architecture, art, nature, and everyday problem solving. I hope you start noticing all the geometry around you! This course highlights those connections while building your confidence with core geometric ideas.

1.1 How To Use This Text

In Chapters 2 through 8, you will see the same flow each time so you always know what to expect.

1. Learning goals so you know what the chapter focus is on.
2. Key terms and formulas (use index cards for key terms and formulas; review those regularly).
3. Mini-lectures that are the content areas with explanations and worked out examples to walk you through the math.
4. Practice problems so you can try the ideas right away.
5. Art and design connections to show where these geometric topics appears in the real world.
6. A creative assignment to connect geometric ideas to a visual design. There are examples and inspiration to get you started. This is where you create your own geometric art.
7. Exercises to build confidence and accuracy.
8. Further reading and interactive activities if you want to feel more confident in the topic and or go deeper.

1.2 Suggested Chapter Workflow

Move through each chapter slowly. Bring your pens or pencils, notebook or binder, and a calculator (if you feel you need one) when you are going through the material. Take notes, sketch diagrams, and work through each problem step by step. Use index cards for key terms and formulas. Review those regularly.

In the Exercises section, I include an active Google Doc link for FIT students and faculty so you can keep practicing and checking your understanding.

1.3 Learning Mindset

You do not need to be a math major to succeed. I want you to focus on making time for this text (and class). Learning mathematics can feel like learning a foreign language; you need to practice to speak fluently. I am here to help you too! You can do it!!!