MathCamp 2013

The University of Manitoba is offering its eleventh summer camp for mathematically interested and talented grade nine and ten students. The purpose of the camp is to enable mathematically gifted students to pursue knowledge in a subject they enjoy, in an environment that encourages and fosters such pursuits. Selected participants will gain knowledge and skills, emphasizing problem solving. The camp will afford participants a chance to meet and make friends with fellow MathCamp students, students who enjoy and value the pursuit of higher learning.

Who can apply?

Students who enjoy and are good at mathematics and who will have completed the equivalent of S1 or S2 mathematics in Manitoba by June 30, 2013.

Time, Location, and Cost

The camp will be held at The University of Manitoba from Sunday, August 25 to Wednesday, August 28. Students will stay in the St. Andrew’s College Residence, where rooms and meals will be provided. Participants must make their own travel arrangements to and from the university. The program will commence at 10 AM on Sunday and terminate at 5 PM on Wednesday. The cost to students is $150.00 per student.

Program

A typical day in the life of a Mathcamper is:

• Breakfast
• Lecture (approximately one hour)
• Problem solving
• Lunch
• Lecture (approximately one hour)
• Problem solving
• Sports and/or Games
• Dinner
• Mathematical diversions
• Lights out

The program is delivered by mathematics professors from The University of Manitoba with assistance from mentors who are young mathematicians from our mathematics programs.

Application process

If you are interested, please complete an application. An application consists of

1. the application form (link),
2. a letter of recommendation (details below),
3. solutions or partial solutions to the quiz below.

Your application must be postmarked by June 30, 2013.

Letter of Recommendation

Your application is not complete unless accompanied by a letter of recommendation from a teacher. The letter should include a phone number or email address so that we can contact your referee if we have any questions. The letter should comment on your creativity, initiative, maturity, ability to work with others, as well as your interest in mathematics and problem solving. We are looking for students who are enthusiastic problem solvers, and who will make a positive contribution to the camp.

Quiz

You should attempt as many questions on the quiz (link) as you can. You are not expected to solve every problem. What is important is evidence of your reasoning. Justify your solutions. If you get stuck in a problem, give a partial solution. Be patient; there is no time limit.