The Maths Explorer Program, launching in 2022, is an exciting new program offering from APSMO designed for students in Years 3 and 4.

Forming the first step in the APSMO Pathway of Achievement, the Maths Explorer aims to build students’ confidence in their own abilities and introduce the fundamentals of mathematical problem solving in a fun and non-threatening program.

Co-developed by APSMO Board Member, Dr Anne Prescott, and UTS education specialist and maths consultant Anne Poole, the Maths Explorer program encourages students to work collaboratively in pairs or small groups of three.

According to Dr Prescott, “This is the major difference between the Maths Explorer and the Maths Games program or Maths Olympiad competition. In the Maths Explorer, students are actively encouraged to work together on solving a problem and exploring different methodologies to reach an answer.

“We want them to think creatively and be confident enough to try different solution methods. The aim of this program is to make problem solving a fun activity that they can enjoy. By using a series of age appropriate themes and situations that students can relate to, and encouraging discussion, we are laying the foundations of future problem solving and breaking down the potential barriers of maths anxiety and a lack of self-belief. ”

For more information on the Maths Explorer program and how you can introduce problem solving activities in Years 3 and 4, click on the program page or contact APSMO by email: enquiries@apsmo.edu.au