Is it a Set? Or is it a System?

You Decide!

Purpose

To enhance your understanding of what constitutes a system.

Overview

In this exercise, you will undertake a simple activity consisting of making two lists, analyzing the two lists, and answering questions based on your analysis of the lists

Action Items

1. Make two lists:

   • Name one list SET, and the other list SYSTEMS.

   • Write out several entries under each title.

     • For example, write down the set of ingredients to make a cake. Then write down in the other list what to do to mix and bake them so that they transform into a system.

     • For another example, write down the set of your favorite football players. Then write down on the other list what they must do to transform into a football team.

2. Compile the two lists of several entries each into a table where each row contains a set and its corresponding system

3. Answer the following questions, based on an analysis of your sets and systems as shown in your table:

   • What distinguishes a set from a system, and the converse?

   • What happens to transform a set into a system?

   • What happens to change a system into a set?