Trine Math Club hosts annual Math Kids' Night

Approximately 25 kindergarten through fifth-graders from area elementary schools took part in the Trine University Math Club’s annual free Math Kids’ Night on Nov. 21 inside the Rick L. and Vicki L. James University Center at the university.

Math Club members carefully developed and led fun, math-related activities for the kids. Children used their mathematical skills to solve puzzles and recognize patterns, had fun playing math bingo, and challenged their measuring skills by making batches of slime to take home. Pizza was served as a snack and as a way to work on division skills.

New to the activities this year was a math challenge contest. Attendees from the fourth and fifth grades participated in the contest, which involved solving word problems incorporating real-life application of mathematical computation. Winners of the Math Challenge were:

First Place: Logan Pugh, fourth grade, Carlin Park Elementary

Second Place: Aavry Dunn, fourth grade, Carlin Park Elementary

Third Place: Urban Fletcher, fifth grade, Ryan Park Elementary

A student chapter of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA), the Trine Math Club is excited to be able to play its part in spreading the love for math.

“Much of the advancement in the fields of science, engineering and technology depends on a sound background in mathematics,” said Haseeb Kazi, Ph.D., faculty advisor. “Bringing this awareness to our elementary school students is extremely important for laying a solid foundation for their next academic levels. We are thankful to the elementary school teachers, staff, and also to the Trine faculty who supported this event with their participation. The Trine Math Club is committed to giving back to our community.”

Top photo: Math Kids' Night winners pose with Trine University faculty, staff from Carlin Park Elementary School and Trine Math Club president Valerie Lyn Obear (front row, center).