The Maths Department have kept Sixth Formers incredibly busy over the past term, taking on the UK Mathematics Challenge and visiting a local school to participate in seminars. Learning about the subject outside the classroom is something about which Shiplake teachers are passionate; leaving the textbook and seeing subjects in real life encourages a greater sense of understanding.
Pupils studying A Level Mathematics headed to Lord Wandsworth College, accompanied by Head of Mathematics Mrs Jess Vigg, in order to see a talk called ‘How Life Reflects Numbers Reflect Life: the psychology of numbers, algorithms and cellular automata’. Whilst the title could hardly be called catchy, the talk certainly drew in the crowds. Given by Alex Bellos - internationally renowned writer, speaker and broadcaster - the lecture aimed to support Sixth Formers in their ability to apply Mathematics to solve real-world problems. An engaging speaker, Alex describes himself as a mathematical communicator, who is highly intrigued by numbers. The audience- which included pupils from Frensham Heights, Pangbourne College, Farnborough Sixth Form and Alton Sixth Form- were captivated, hanging on Alex’s every word as he explored the relevance of numbers in life. Some particular highlights include learning that the world’s favourite number is seven, that people associate odd numbers with female traits and even numbers with male traits, and that prime numbers which occur randomly create a pattern when coloured in a spiral number grid.
A Level pupils also took part in the UK Mathematics Trust challenge. A competition that is open to schools nationwide, the challenge consists of papers are sat in school, which consist of multiple choice questions and further ‘food for thought’ questions. Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates are then awarded to participants, and certain pupils are selected to continue with the contest, sitting further papers. The competition is ongoing; Shiplake Sixth Formers have completed the first round and look forward to further stages of the prestigious competition.
