Early in Semester Two, students in Years 10 and 11 will be choosing their VCE subjects. When choosing which level of mathematics to study, students should do the hardest mathematics of which they are capable, but not one which is too hard. As hard as possible for them, because this will give them the most options going forward in terms of university courses and careers, and cognitive growth. Not one which is too hard, because it is important to be realistic. Choosing a mathematics which is too hard means you will not have enough success to keep options open, but instead will cause you unnecessary grief. Your math teacher should be able to give you some indication of the math subjects to which you are well-suited. Choose to do what is purposeful rather than what is easy.

Late in May we had over 100 students take part in the Computational and Algorithmic Thinking competition, a one-hour problem solving test. I commend all who participated, it takes a certain amount of bravery to put yourself out there, and you get the growth that can only come from striving at the highest level. Particular congratulations go to the following students who received Certificates of Distinction.

and to a further 22 students who received Certificates of Credit.

There are other formal opportunities for extension. Year 7 to Year 9 students can participate in the Math Challenge – currently underway. In this they have 6 problems to solve over 3 weeks (with the second two of these due this Friday June 13). Students have been emailed these problems and even if they miss the first few, it is still worth them submitting the latter problems.

The Australian Math Competition in August is another opportunity for extension, with teachers in the process of offering this to students in their classes. It is important for students to realise that in all of these competitions, it is an achievement to solve any of the problems: the best student in Australia may not receive 100% in a competition.

Each Wednesday from 3.30 to 4.30 math teachers provide additional support for students in the library. Whether students are struggling with Year 7 math or trying to turn an A into an A+ in Year 12 Specialist math, or anywhere in between, they are encouraged to take advantage of this offer. The more mathematics questions that students complete, the more their mathematical ability improves. Their math ability is not fixed at its current level. The extra assistance can help them to get more questions done in less time. Some students use this time to get assistance from teachers for a large part of the time. Other students use this time to complete their math homework, rarely asking for assistance, but are using the structured time to help them develop good homework habits. Both of these approaches are encouraged. Numbers are up but we will always find space for more. No booking is required.