The Math Circle

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, Mathematics Outreach activities at the University of Regina are canceled until further notice.

 

The Math Circle is a series of sessions aimed at students of all ages interested in mathematics.

The content of each session varies. We may explore mathematical topics beyond the standard math curriculum or try out mathematical games and puzzles. Most sessions also have a strong problem solving component. Students will work through a variety of mathematical problems in order to better understand specific problem solving strategies.

The Math Circle is also an opportunity for students with an interest in mathematics to meet each other and be exposed to mathematical content in a fun and relaxed environment.

Please note that the Math Circle is not intended as a math tutoring service or a remedial math class. While there is no academic standard that students have to meet in order to join the Math Circle, we do expect students to have an interest in mathematics and a desire to learn.

Current Schedule

 
In Winter 2020, there will be three Math Circle sessions on Wednesday afternoon and evenings on the following dates: January 22nd, February 12th, and March 18th.
 
A main focus of these three sessions will be competition-style practice problems, to help prepare students for the Math Kangaroo and similar contests.
 
Session A: Grades 1-2: Wednesdays 4:30-5:30 PM (SESSION FULL)
Session B: Grades 3-4: Wednesdays 4:30-5:30 PM (SESSION FULL)
Session C: Grades 5-6: Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 PM (SESSION FULL)
Session D: Grades 7-10: Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 PM
 
All sessions take place in the Classroom Building, rooms CL 408 and 410. See the campus map at the bottom of this page.
 
Parking: There are pay meters and a pay parking lot on campus. Note that parking in all "M" and "Z" lots as well as at meter areas is free to the public after 5 PM.
 

How to Register

Attendance to the sessions is free of charge, however you must register in advance as space is limited. To register, please contact Patrick Maidorn at patrick.maidorn@uregina.ca with the student’s full name, grade and school, as well as a guardian’s name and contact information (email and emergency cell phone).

Frequently Asked Questions

For further information, please consider the following list of common questions and answers.

“Do I have to be good at math to participate?”

No, a particular mathematical skill set is not required. However, hopefully you are someone who generally enjoys or is curious about mathematics, puzzles, games, logic, and similar subjects and activities.

“Will these sessions improve my math grades?”

They may, but that is not the intent of the Math Circle. What we do in these sessions is often quite separate from what is covered in your mathematics classroom at school. However, we hope that your work in these sessions will help improve your general understanding of mathematical thinking and problem solving, as well as inspire your enthusiasm for the subject.

“Are parents required to stay with students during the sessions?”

No. In fact, we ask parents to not sit in during sessions, in order to encourage students to work with each other.

“Do I need to attend all of the classes in my session?”

If at all possible, yes. While there is some independence between classes, we will often use knowledge from earlier meetings in later classes.        

“Can I register in a session outside of my grade group?”

Generally, no. Each session’s material is aimed at a particular age group, and we’d rather not bore someone with material that is too easy, or frustrate them with material that is too challenging. However, if you have a particular reason for wishing to register in a different section, please let us know and we will consider it.

"Do I need to bring anything?"

All material is provided. Feel free to bring a favourite pen/pencil and a workbook or folder to keep your material in.

 

Map for Math Circle

If you have other questions, please contact Patrick Maidorn at patrick.maidorn@uregina.ca.

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