Math Challenge at Western

math challenge

Program Overview

The Math Challenge is the flagship outreach program of the Department of Mathematics, centered around problem-solving skills. Initiated and led by local math teachers since the late 1990s, the program aims to cultivate a love for mathematics and enhance problem-solving skills among students of Grades 5-12. By engaging students in challenging mathematical problems and providing them with the necessary tools and strategies, the program fosters critical thinking and creativity. Over the years, the Math Challenge has successfully trained and prepared thousands of primary and secondary students for a variety of math contests. 

Who can benefit from the program?

The program is for those who enjoy problem-solving in math. If you wish to extend your mathematical repertoire beyond the school curriculum and prepare for mathematics contests, this program is for you. The program will run from October 2024-April 2025 for students working at a grade 5 or up level. There will be a variety of sample math problems and problem-solving techniques taught at the program by the instructors. 

Who are the program teachers?

The Math Challenge teachers are experienced local math educators who generously share their passion for mathematics, along with their time and expertise, with students. To enhance the program further, we have begun to expand our roster by including graduate students and younger teachers. These emerging educators bring new energy and current mathematical practices to the program, fostering a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Together, our team of seasoned educators along with new talents is committed to helping students unlock their full potential and excel in their mathematical endeavors. 

You can find more information about our teachers and staff on this page.

Some remarks:

  • There are no books required for the program, but we can recommend books appropriate to augment the students’ studies.
  • It is expected that students will work at home on the problems handed out and be prepared to discuss them in class.
  • Please arrive at class ten minutes before the class is due to start so that we can start on time.

We reserve the right to request students to leave who behave inappropriately and/or distract others.

Program Schedule

 In the academic year 2024-2025, Math Challenge will continue to run in-person sessions. This year, the program is offered on four different levels: Grades 5/6, Grades 7/8, Grades 9/10 and Grades 11/12.

Grades 5/6

Grades 7/8

Grades 9/10

  • Dates and time: Mondays, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
  • Location: Middlesex College, Room 105B
  • Teachers: Donna MacDonald, Hamed Hessam

Grades 11/12

  • Dates and time: Tuesdays, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
  • Location: Middlesex College, Room 105B
  • Teachers: Tom Griffiths, Peter O’Hara, and Allen O’Hara.  

Even though we state grade levels, these are a guide and should not be considered a restriction. For example, we are happy to have grade 4 students attend the grade 5/6 session or grade 6 students attend the grade 7 to 10 session if they have appropriate desire, experience, and ability.   

 

Key sessional dates: 

Here are the key sessional dates for math challenge program in 2024-25:

  • First day of the program: October 7, 2024 
  • Christmas break:  December 18, 2024 to Jan 5, 2025 
  • Exam period break: January 20-30, 2025
  • Last day of the exam: April, 17, 2025
Note: If city buses are not running or the university has been closed due to snow, there will be no classes.

Registration  

The registration fee for the entire program is $100 (plus taxes)  per student. The fee is non-refundable. The registration fee will be used to cover program expenses, including supplies, administrative costs, staff and teacher hiring, as well as supporting initiatives to promote mathematics in the community. 

We are committed to ensuring our program is accessible to everyone. Financial assistance is available for individuals in need through special discounted registration fees or waived fees. For more information, please contact the program coordinator.

One registration fee allows you to attend as many session levels as you want.   

Registration for Math Challenge 2024/25 will open early in September. Payment methods accepted are Visa, MasterCard, and Visa Debit.

 

Math Challenge Registration 2024-25

 

To be informed of the registration for the future program and our other programs, please sign up for our outreach contact list here. 


Updated: August 29, 2024