Math Modeling is taught by Ms.Burns and is centered around problem solving and collaboration. We encounter unfamiliar problems and are encouraged to find patterns and different ways to solve them. A typical math class starts with homework discussion, followed by presentations of the challenging problems in the homework. This is where we develop our mathematical skills and learn from our mistakes. Additionally, this class includes several mathematical modeling projects such as HiMCM (The High School Mathematical Contest in Modeling) and MTFC (Modeling the Future). Each year, Mass Academy students participate in HiMCM, which is a 3 day math competition that includes writing a paper incorporating a mathematical model to solve the math scenario. Scroll down to learn about MTFC!
Epsilon School is a group project that involves solving a problem by making assumptions, essentially creating a mathematical model. The problem scenario goes like this: A new wing is being added to the Epsilon School of Mathematics and Science so that the student population can be increased from 490 to 630 for the coming school year. To accommodate this increase, seven additional faculty are going to be hired. Currently, there are 6 Math teachers, 3 Chemistry teachers, 3 Physics teachers, 4 Biology teachers, 5 Social Studies teachers, 5 English teachers, 3 Foreign Language teachers, 1 music teacher and 1 Art teacher. Therefore, the question is how should we hire the new faculty?
This Wishful Thinking POW or Problem of the Week is the first of many group challenge problems. These are meant to enhance our written communication skills and challenge our thought process. Problem of the Week: There are 9 identical-looking stones: 8 with identical weights and 1, the Ada Lace, which is heavier than the rest. With only two balance scales that can be used once, is it possible to identify the Ada Lace?
The Modeling the Future Challenge is a group math modeling competition held by the Actuarial foundation, where students create their own mathematical model to investigate a problem of their choosing and develop risk mitigation strategies. My team consists of Vyshnavi, Ishana, Anika, Avani, and me. We wanted to model the effects of social media on mortality rates and develop advanced suicide prevention strategies. Currently, we are in the process of meeting with an actuary from the foundation for feedback and starting to write our paper. Scroll through the document to learn more about our project!
