부산대학교 도서관

Part of a special issue on the history of mathematics. Mesopotamian mathematics activities involving cuneiform numerals are presented. The activities involve writing the cuneiform numerals 1–60; Mesopotamian place-value systems; zero and negative numbers in cuneiform; very small numbers in cuneiform; Mesopotamian multiplication tables, multiplication methods, reciprocals, and dividing methods; and deciphering cuneiform tablets. An activity concerning the reasons why cuneiform died out is also provided, and background information for the teacher on writing cuneiform numbers, the sexagesimal place-value system, and ancient school arithmetic is presented.