Local students compete in GVSU math challenge

Local middle and high school students put their mathematical knowledge to the test as they competed against each other during the 3rd annual Math-Team-Matics challenge at Grand Valley State University.

Hosted by the Department of Mathematics and Regional Math and Science Center, the November 7 competition saw 45 students from five local schools competing in four contests involving content from K-8 mathematics, high school algebra and high school geometry.

West Catholic High School captured this year's top prize in the high school division, while the Northern Hills Middle School team won the middle school division.

“This program gives 7th through 10th grade students the opportunity to collaborate and think differently about problem solving in mathematics,” said Chelsea Ridge, Regional Math and Science Center math program coordinator. “Math-Team-Matics is also a great opportunity for students to experience what it is like to be on a college campus, some of them for the first time.”

Ridge added that the competition is predominately planned by Grand Valley students from the Mathematics Department with an interest in education. Students Jennifer Moon, Brittany Bordewyk and Nick Schweitzer organized this year’s contest. Grand Valley students also serve as volunteers to facilitate the event’s individual challenges.

Contests during this year’s competition included a team challenge with students working in teams of five to solve a mathematical problem, individual tests, a team problem-solving relay race, and a bracket-style quiz bowl.

For more information about Math-Team-Matics, contact Chelsea Ridge at (616) 331-3172 or [email protected].