150 young mathletes from Eastern Michigan University’s charter schools to compete in Math Facts Challenge–May 30

Young people compete to answer a math problem on a flash card at Math Facts Challenge
(EMU file photo)

YPSILANTI —  More than 150 mathletes, grades first through eighth, will put their brains to the test during a Math Facts Challenge hosted by Eastern Michigan University's Charter Schools Office. The head-to-head competition is planned for 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, at the EMU Student Center, 900 Oakwood St. in Ypsilanti.

"The Math Facts Challenge not only gets students excited about math but also exposes students to a college campus which is important because many of them would not have this exposure if not for the Math Facts Challenge," said Dustin Palmer, event coordinator of the Math Facts Challenge, intervention teacher at Grand Blanc Academy and math data coach. "The challenge also teaches the mathletes good sportsmanship because we encourage shaking hands and congratulating the winner at the end of each round."

The challenge aims to motivate students to develop knowledge in mathematics as they face off with a series of exciting and challenging grade-level appropriate questions. Sixth grader Gabriella M. discussed her favorite tricky math question. She said, "Seven-tenths divided by two-fifths is my favorite because I struggle with that problem and it is exciting when it is hard and I love a challenge."

The annual Math Facts Challenge was on hold due to Covid-19 restrictions, but now the competition is back and students are ready to compete. Sixth grader Nayla D. has been participating in mock challenges in class to prepare for the competition. While first grader Jackson H. said he is preparing for competition by learning facts and not counting on his fingers.

According to Palmer, the competition is set up similarly to the NCAA bracket. Students will be paired against each other and compete in their grade-level break-out rooms. When each grade room reaches the final four students, everyone returns to the ballroom to watch the final four compete.

All mathletes will receive a participation ribbon and a souvenir bag to take home. Medals will be awarded to students who place first through fourth. 

“We are thrilled that the Math Facts competition is an encouraging factor in developing students' knowledge in mathematics,” said Alan Carter, associate director of the EMU Charter Schools Office. “The competition creates a positive and fun environment and also allows us to introduce students to EMU’s beautiful campus.” 

All EMU elementary and middle charter schools were invited this year to participate, including the Academy for Business and Technology, Commonwealth Community Development Academy, Global Tech Academy, Grand Blanc Academy, Great Lakes Academy, Dr. Joseph F. Pollack Academic Center of Excellence.

For a glimpse of the 2018 Math Facts Challenge at EMU, watch this youtube video

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.

May 17, 2023

Written by:
Victoria Scott

Media Contact:
Melissa Thrasher
mthrashe@emich.edu
734-487-4401