Mathematical Curiosities
Questions that appear simple but lead to surprisingly interesting mathematical ideas.
Featured topics and article links will be added here.
A little curiosity goes a long way
I'm George Dimitriadis, a retired mathematics teacher and lifelong enthusiast of puzzles, storytelling and the unexpected side of everyday life.
Here you'll find mathematical curiosities, classroom humour, original stories, reflections and educational resources. Whether you're a student, a teacher or simply someone who enjoys a good question, I hope you'll find something to make you think — and occasionally smile.
The Jimmy Files
Jimmy and the Missing Dollar
Meet Jimmy, the student whose innocent questions have a remarkable talent for turning an ordinary mathematics lesson into something extraordinary.
In this mathematical mystery, a dollar seems to vanish into thin air. Can Jimmy and his teacher discover where the arithmetic went wrong?
Watch the video on YouTube$30 − $29 = $1?
One missing dollar. One very good question.
Mathematics & Puzzles
Educational Resources
Ideas and explanations drawn from many years in the mathematics classroom.
Resources and worksheets can be added as they become available.
Puzzles & Problems
Problems to explore, discuss and sometimes argue about — preferably with a smile.
A collection of favourite puzzles is coming soon.
Books
The Jimmy Files
Mathematical disasters, classroom humour and surprising puzzles from Room E.
View on Amazon
An Anthology of School Yarns
Funny, strange and memorable stories from a teacher's life.
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25 Curious Tales
Humorous observations, curious questions and the unexpected side of everyday life.
View on Amazon
Looking at Life Sideways
Humour, imagination and observations on the unexpected.
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Taking the Scenic Route
Reflections on people, possessions and a changing world.
View on AmazonFeatured Stories from Medium
Explore Jimmy's mathematical adventures, curious questions and reflections on everyday life.
The Jimmy Files
Jimmy and the One-Dollar Trap
A seemingly simple dollar creates an unexpected mathematical puzzle.
Read on MediumJimmy Discovers That −3² Has Two Answers
Jimmy questions the conventions of mathematical notation.
Read on MediumJimmy Proves That a Flying Arrow Cannot Move
An ancient paradox challenges Jimmy's understanding of motion.
Read on MediumMathematics & Reflections
What Is 0⁰?
A deceptively simple question about zero, powers and mathematical context.
Read on MediumMore Questions That Terrify a Mathematics Teacher
Innocent-looking questions with surprisingly complicated answers.
Read on MediumWho Really Benefits When We Give?
A reflection on generosity, kindness and the rewards of giving.
Read on MediumYouTube
PhiloMathematica on YouTube
Explore mathematical curiosities, classroom humour, puzzles and entertaining stories through video.
Visit My YouTube Channel