MAGE and PREKIN are software packages used by scientists to assist them in understanding molecular structure and function. PREKIN allows the user, starting with a set of Cartesian coordinates, to create a database that can then be displayed as an image using MAGE. The images (referred to as Kinemages) can be manipulated in 3 Dimensions. In addition, it is possible to perform distance and angle measurements on the objects as well as draw new lines that can be incorporated into the image. These capabilities make MAGE and PREKIN an excellent tool for use in K-12 mathematics and science.
We have used PREKIN and MAGE to create five introductory databases that contain images found in the K-12 mathematics and science curricula. We are presently developing and testing activities to be used with these databases.
We feel the use of these software packages, in addition to other public domain software found over the Internet, have several interesting features for use in K-12 education, amoung them:
1)where databases are already available, teachers can easily expand databases and activities to provide for additional activities for students; and
2)teachers can easily modify existing activities for higher and lower grade levels;
3)the cost of using public domain software is free (this means multiple copies can be made to be used at school and home).
Following is a short description of each database. Clicking on the image will cause MAGE to appear on your terminal providing you have properly configured your system. If you are unaware of MIME types for Chemistry which are required of MAGE click here .
This tutorial introduces the student to the software MAGE and it's 3 Dimensional capabilities. This is an excellent supplement for students who are studying solid geometric figures.
Exercises in 2-Dimensional modeling of geometric figures. The tutorial also introduces the Draw capabilities of MAGE.
3 D technology is rapidly expanding (even the entertainment industry is experimenting with its use). Suprisingly, little solid geometry is in the K-12 mathematics curriculum. This tutorial introduces students to the geometry of 3 Dimensions.
This tutorial introduces the student to several types of molecules covered in the 9th Grade Physical Science curriculum (e.g., water, methane, benzene, amino acids). It is in this tutorial that students will begin to see the connections between mathematics and molecules.
Most students are so used to seeing molecules in books they think of them as both flat and static. To create these databases Molecular Dynamic Simulations were performed. The simulation allowed us to save as snapshots of images over a period of 10 picoseconds. Using the animate capabilities of Kinemage students will be able to oberve the motion of molecules over time.
Please contact us if you need assistance in using any of these tutorials, or if you have any suggestions !!
K-12 Mathmol Home Page