Floor Situation

H.Res. 224 is expected to be considered on the floor on Wednesday, March 11, 2009, under a motion to suspend the rules. This resolution was introduced by Representative Bart Gordon (D-TN) on March 9, 2009.

Bill Summary

H.Res. 224 resolves that the House of Representatives:

• "Supports the designation of a ‘Pi Day' and its celebration around the world;
•  "Recognizes the continuing importance of National Science Foundation's math and science education programs; and
• "Encourages schools and educators to observe the day with appropriate activities that teach students about Pi and engage them about the study of mathematics."

 

Background

According to findings listed in the resolution, the Greek letter Pi is the symbol for the ration of the circumference of a circle to its diameter which will continue infinitely without repeating. Pi is a recurring number that has been studied throughout history and is essential to engineering and mathematics. According to the 2007 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, American children in 4th and 8th grade were outperformed by students in other countries. Because Pi can be approximated as 3.14, March 14th, 2009, has been designated as National Pi Day, and will be used as an occasion to encourage the study of math.