On Friday 9th December the Year 13 ‘Maths Competition’ team, consisting of Christine A, Tori M, Jenny M, Rhian T and Rachael T accompanied by Head of Mathematics Mrs Dawson, embarked on a journey to the University Quarter of Belfast. We arrived at ‘The Space’ in Queens’ University Students’ Union at 12.30pm ready for the challenge ahead. The competition, organised by the School of Mathematics and Physics attracted teams from schools throughout Northern Ireland.
The competition consisted of three rounds. The first round required teams to work on a series of ten mathematical problems and a set of ten mathematical puzzles made up the second round with the final part taking the shape of a Mathematical quiz which included the identification of celebrated mathematicians from throughout the ages. Teachers were encouraged to participate in this final round; no pressure! Each round lasted 45 minutes and all were both enjoyable and challenging.
As S Gudder says, ‘The essence of mathematics is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple.’
Jenny M and Tori M (Year 13)
