MATH TEACHERS LEARN JUGGLING

William V. Thayer, dressed in a tuxedo, carrying a sack of juggling balls, had a mission Friday: Teach a group of math teachers to juggle.

While his unlikely group of students tossed small bean bags in the air, Thayer explained the principles that make juggling both an art and a science.

Thayer was among speakers at an annual conference for teachers of mathematics from kindergarten through college levels. More than 250 math teachers are attending the conference, which concludes today at Southeast Missouri State University.

Robert Sheets, math professor at Southeast, said the annual state conference gives mathematicians a chance to share ideas formally and informally. Educators and students are presenting papers to explain research they have conducted. Others are discussing teaching methods and techniques that work. "We get ideas, revived and inspired," Sheets said.

The juggling Thayer teaches algebra and calculus at St. Louis Community College in St. Louis. He also teaches juggling, but usually as a way of explaining math skills. Students can calculate the curve, plot points on the curve and compute the projectile motion needed for successful juggling. One of his students wrote a computer program to simulate the curve of a juggling throw.

Thayer isn't alone in his study of juggling. Ancient mathematician Galileo studied motion and projectiles, all part of the science of juggling. Peter Jan Beek, a current scientist, researches human movement by studying juggling. In fact, juggling has been the subject of much scientific research, including a recent article in "Scientific American."

Thayer added that a group of juggling mathematicians is more likely than one might imagine. "There is a rumor going around that a fairly high percentage of mathematicians and computer scientists are jugglers."

Thayer learned to juggle four years ago when his children came home from college with the new skill. "I had always wanted to learn," he said. "When you ask a question in math class, you have to wait a long time for the answer. I wanted something to do besides think about lunch."

Thayer walks and juggles two miles each morning, giving him a chance to see the scenery and meet new people. He attends juggling fairs and is a member of a juggling club in St. Louis.

While he reserves juggling demonstrations to just a few class periods during a semester, his fame as a juggling mathematician is growing. He's a hit among Cub Scout packs in the St. Louis area. Thayer hopes his lighthearted approach also breaks down some stereotypes about math.

"We all juggle in life," he said. "Why not in the classroom."