Eighth-graders to immerse in math

November 1, 2007

Eighth-graders to immerse in math

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Eighth-graders from Tippecanoe and Benton counties will have a field day with math during a daylong enrichment event sponsored by the Purdue University Mathematics Education Club.

The second annual Math Field Day will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 7) in the Purdue Armory. Approximately 80 students enrolled in algebra at Wainwright Middle School and St. James Lutheran School in Lafayette, Ind., and Benton Central Junior High School in Benton County will participate in hands-on, math-related activities.

"We want to generate interest in mathematics with K-12 students and help them see that math is practical and fun," said Laura Bowerman, vice president of the Mathematics Education Club.

"Math Field Day is a great opportunity to see middle school students engaged in exciting and challenging mathematics activities," said Jerry Woodward, mathematics K-12 outreach coordinator. "It is also a great service-learning opportunity for the members of the Mathematics Education Club. As future mathematics teachers, students in the club are getting practical experience in creating engaging lessons and working with middle school students."

One of the most popular activities is Campus Slope, in which students will use the mathematical definition of slope to locate landmarks on Purdue's campus. Among the new events is the Two Pitcher Problem, in which students will measure different amounts of liquid without using a measuring cup.

"The events are designed to stress math concepts, problem-solving skills and teamwork," Bowerman said.

Math Field Day is open to the public. Awards will be presented at 1 pm. For a complete schedule, contact Woodward at (765) 494-9578, jwoodwar@purdue.edu, or Bowerman at lbowerma@purdue.edu.

Math Field Day is supported by the Department of Mathematics, the College of Science K-12 Outreach Program and a student grant for a community service/service-learning project from the Purdue Office of Engagement.

Writer: Marydell Forbes, (765) 496-7704, mforbes@purdue.edu

Sources: Laura Bowerman, (574) 457-9076, lbowerma@purdue.edu

Jerry Woodward, (765) 494-9578, jwoodwar@purdue.edu

William Walker, College of Science director of outreach, (765) 494-5890, wswalker@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: For a complete Math Field Day schedule, contact Marydell Forbes, Purdue News Service, at (765) 496-7704, mforbes@purdue.edu

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