Ancient Sumerian Mathematics and Writing

What was the purpose of the development of the first systems of mathematics and writing in Mesopotamia?

• to better understand addition and subtraction

• to gain distinction as the first to develop such important systems

• to keep accurate records of trade

• to use in schools in learning history

What base did ancient Sumerian mathematicians use for their number system?

• 10

• 20

• 60

• 100

What skills did ancient Sumerian mathematicians develop?

• Geometry and algebra

• Addition, subtraction, and multiplication

• Trigonometry and calculus

• Statistics and probability

How did early Mesopotamian records depict the number of cattle?

• By writing the number in words

• By drawing pictures of cattle

• By using small marks next to a picture of a head of cattle

• By using Roman numerals

What material were early Mesopotamian records made on?

• Papyrus

• Stone tablets

• Soft clay tablets

• Animal skins

What was the writing system called that developed around 3000 B.C.?

• Hieroglyphics

• Cuneiform

• Alphabet

• Pictographs

What did scribes use to make records permanent?

• Drying in the sun

• Baking in a kiln

• Freezing

• Pressing with a heavy stone

How did scribes write on their tablets before 3000 B.C.?

• Horizontally from left to right

• Vertically from top-right, down, and to the left

• Diagonally from top-left to bottom-right

• In a circular pattern

What type of writing tool did scribes start using around 3000 B.C.?

• A pointed pen

• A wedge-shaped tip

• A brush

• A quill

What did the wedge symbols in cuneiform writing represent?

• Only numbers

• Only pictures

• Different things, with sounds used to create other words

• Only abstract concepts