dc.description.abstract | This thesis is an introduction to graph theory with its core concepts and formulas, including a look at the mostly untapped classroom potential of this field of mathematics. Included are in-depth explanations and proofs of the Euler characteristic, platonic solids, the Kuratowski planarity criterion, and the 5- colour theorem, in addition to an introduction to the 4-colour theorem. For platonic solids, the Kuratowski planarity criterion, and the 4-colour theorem, there are suggestions for how to implement these concepts in the classroom, some with variations based on age group. After completing some of the lesson plans suggested in this thesis with students ranging from 4th to 9th grade, I have reason to believe that there is huge potential in introducing more concepts from graph theory at an earlier age and in teaching maths more visually. | |