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MATHCOUNTS

2008 Chapter Competition Dates:

About MATHCOUNTS

MATHCOUNTS is the only nationwide coaching and competition mathematics program designed to improve math skills among U.S. 6th, 7th and 8th graders who are at a crucial stage in developing and sustaining math interest and ability.

MATHCOUNTS MISSION: To increase interest and involvement in mathematics among all middle school students in order to assist in developing a technically literate population essential to U.S. global competitiveness and the quality of life.

How does the MATHCOUNTS program work? In Colorado, the program is made possible by the Professional Engineers of Colorado. Schools register with MATHCOUNTS and receive coaching and testing materials and begin in September preparing for regional competition that is held in February.

What are the topics covered and are they really appropriate for seventh and eight graders? Topics include algebra, probability, approximation, geometry and statistics. Problems fit in 6th, 7th and 8th grade curriculums across the country. Problems are designed to accelerate students' interest and achievement in mathematics.

How do teachers use the coaching materials? Teachers use the materials in many ways. They incorporate it into their classrooms; use it for extra-curricular activities or extra credit. They sometimes use it in after school programs as well.

How many students participated this year? Nationally, over 500,000 participate at the school level and approximately 30,000 at local competitions. We have approximately 600 students participate regionally and we expect over 120 to compete at the state level in March 2005 at University of Denver.

Is MATHCOUNTS just for gifted students? Not at all. Materials are designed to stimulate interest and achievement in mathematics among ALL 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. Problems focus on problem solving skills, and demonstrate to students how math relates to the real world.

MATHCOUNTS works because it:

• Motivates and rewards students by fostering team problem solving and competitive spirit;
• Is more than competition. It involves students and teachers in year-long coaching sessions and helps students at all skill levels learn problem-solving techniques;
• Builds math skills, promotes strategic problem solving and challenges students to sharpen their analytical abilities;
• Gives America's sixth, seventh and eight grade math teachers incentive to excel in the classroom and provides state-of-the-art math curriculum materials free of charge;
• Stimulates interest in math by introducing students to math-related careers through contacts with engineers and other program volunteers;
• Is educator driven. Materials and activities are structured to meet student needs identified by educators.

Hot Numbers:

• More than 17,000 volunteers (teachers, engineers, alumni, parents and others) participate annually to coach students and conduct competitions;
• Since 1983, over five million students have participated; over 500,000 students participate each year;
• Jefferson County Student wins 2nd Place in the National Competition in 2002
• Colorado Team takes 9th Place overall in the National Competition in 2002
• Nearly 7,000 schools register to participate annually from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories and Department of Defense and State Department schools worldwide;
• Program sponsors donate over $1 million annually at the national level and more than $600,000 at the state and local levels

National Society of Professional Engineers - Colorado Chapter
8181 E. Tufts Avenue
Denver, CO 80237
Phone: 303-796-4611
Fax: 303-930-6080