Five Albert G. Prodell Middle School students – Laurel Coster, Gavin Gilligan Linda Hu, Landon Ivezaj and Keenan Varbero – competed in the MoMath competition recently held at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Sponsored by the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) in New York City, the event brought together middle school students from across the region to tackle complex mathematical challenges and showcase their problem-solving skills.

The competition consisted of three rounds: an individual round, a team round and the unique “Mix-Up round,” where students from different schools worked collaboratively to solve problems. This innovative format encouraged both individual effort and teamwork, giving participants the opportunity to learn from one another and apply their mathematical knowledge in new ways.

In the individual round, students were presented with problems that required both abstract and intuitive thinking. These problems challenged them to explore mathematical concepts from different angles, sharpening their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Prodell students tackled even more challenging problems in the team round. They developed strategies, communicated ideas and applied their mathematical knowledge in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

The highlight of the day was the “Mix-Up round,” where students were randomly grouped together to solve problems. This round emphasized collaboration and communication, as students had to quickly adapt to new team dynamics while working on complex problems that required out-of-the-box thinking. The ability to collaborate across schools demonstrated the power of teamwork and the importance of diverse perspectives in solving mathematical challenges.

“Our students found the competition both challenging and rewarding, as they tackled abstract problems and worked collaboratively to solve them,” math teacher Robert Christensen said. “Their experience at BNL not only reinforced their love for mathematics but also gave them a chance to see how math is applied in real-world settings. It was an unforgettable day that highlighted the power of teamwork, critical thinking and mathematical exploration.”

This event serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in young learners. “By participating in competitions like MoMath, students develop a deeper understanding of math and gain the confidence to pursue future academic and career opportunities in STEM fields,” Mr. Christensen said. “The team left the competition feeling inspired and motivated to continue exploring the fascinating world of mathematics.”

Date Added: 2/3/2025