What is the difference between proof in mathematics and proof in science or a court of law? In mathematics, how does proof differ from other types of arguments? What forms can proof take besides the traditional two-column style? What activities constitute the process of proving? What roles do examples play in proving? Can examples ever prove a conjecture? Why does a single counterexample refute a conjecture?
How much do you know...and how much do you need to know?
Helping your students develop a robust understanding of mathematical proof and proving requires that you understand this...