2008 STATE-WIDE MATHEMATICS GAMES DAYS

A new setting for mathematics - Novel and challenging tasks - Competitions and prizes - FUN!

Problem solving and mathematical games address the VELS domains of the Interdisciplinary Learning strand:
Creativity
“The capacity to think creatively is a central component of being able to solve problems and be innovative. In the Creativity dimension, students learn to seek innovative alternatives and use their imagination to generate possibilities. They learn to take risks with their thinking and make new connections.”

Thinking Processes
“This domain encompasses a range of cognitive, affective and metacognitive knowledge, skills and behaviours which are essential for effective functioning in society both within and beyond school. The study of thinking enables students to acquire strategies for thinking related to inquiry, processing information, reasoning, problem solving, evaluation and reflection.”

What better way to enhance your students’ skills with this Interdisciplinary Learning strand than attending a Games Day?

A Maths Games Day is an opportunity for students to develop their mathematical talents and thinking skills in a setting where maths is regarded as fun and worthwhile with like-minded students from a diverse range of schools. It is an ideal way for students to participate in mathematical activities without the usual class room pressures and is a very effective vehicle for getting young people – particularly in the middle years of schooling – excited about maths.

Teams of 4 students compete for a variety of prizes. Individual prizes are awarded for creativity, contribution to group work, lucky door prize, etc. The participants are not necessarily the mathematically brightest in the school but are drawn from those who have a keen interest in mathematics and who can operate as a team. Lateral thinking wins the day.

Teachers also have an opportunity to meet colleagues from other schools, attend a professional learning activity and to inspect displays of teaching resources.

Maths Games Days are organised and run by a Games Day Committee made up of representatives from the host schools.

The MAV is interested in promoting a state and a nation-wide competition and would like to hear from schools, particularly in country regions, who are considering running a Games Day either within their own school or for the region. Please contact Michael Westbrook (mwestbrook@mav.vic.edu.au).

Find out more by reading the reports below.

Games Days for 2008.

Reports from 2008 Games Days

• Year 5 - St Catherine's School
• Year 8 - Penleigh  and Essendon Grammar
• Year 9 - Wesley College, Elsternwick Campus
• Year 10 - Mount Scopus Memorial College

For more information contact: Mike Westbrook