Math Modeling, taught by Ms. Durost, is a unique class because we learn to model real world scenarios using math and data. We also learn number theory, statistics, and how to work in different bases. Math Modeling especially focuses on collaboration and team work to solve challenging problems. Additionally, at MAMS, everyone competes in math modeling competitions including Modeling The Future Challenge (MTFC) and High School Mathematics Contest in Modeling (HiMCM). Both these competitions challenge high schoolers to design a solution to a real-world problem using techniques that we learn in Math Modeling.
At Mass Academy, everyone in Math Modeling participates in the Modeling The Future Challenge (MTFC). This is a
challenge that combines the skills we learn in Math Modeling with actuarial science. In this challenge, we form
groups to explore a problem and use data to create and recommend a solution. My group, Jasmine, Adrika, Parnitha,
Saara, and I, chose to look at the risk of addiction from using opioids in surgery.
Not able to view the pdf? Check out our project proposal
for MTFC here!
In Math Modeling, we work together in groups to solve the Problem Of the Week (POW). These problems require pattern
identification and problem solving skills to solve. One of my favorites was the Happy Birthday POW, where we had to
create a mathematical formula to find the day of the week someone was born, given their birth date. The challenge was
that we were only given a calendar of October 2025, a list of famous birthdays and their corresponding day of the week,
and no calculators.
Not able to view the pdf? Check out our solution here!