“The beauty in mathematics can be found in the process of deriving elegant and succinct approaches to resolving problems. Other times, messy problems and seeming chaos may culminate in beautiful, sometimes surprising, results that are both simple and generalizable. Most important, the beauty of mathematics is experienced when exciting breakthroughs in problem solving are made and an air of relief and awe is enjoyed. The two aspects of mathematics, aesthetics and application, are deeply interconnected.” (Ontario Curriculum, 2020)
At YRDSB: Students will be confident problem solvers who use mathematical knowledge, skills and processes to be contributing members of a changing society.
To support the learning and teaching of math, we have developed a board-wide Math Strategy. Math success for all students requires a strong partnership between home and school. That’s why we are committed to providing parents with the support they need to support the mathematical thinking of their child.
What is my child learning?
Monthly Math Newsletter
Check out our monthly math newsletter for tips, resources and more to support math learning.
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January 2024 - Math Puzzles
Math NewsletterOnline Puzzles
Games and puzzles are a great way of practicing math skills while having fun. Playing games and doing puzzles support computational fluency, strategy development, and making connections between mathematical concepts.
Puzzles give meaningful and enjoyable problem solving opportunities to learn math while having fun. They can be played individually or collaboratively with a friend or family member, and at home or on the go.
Math Problem of the Month
Here is the current math problem of the month as well as the previous month's problem with a solution and extension question.
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Problem of the Month - January 2024
Math ProblemsIn how many ways can 15 identical red blocks be put into four piles so that each pile has at least one block and no two piles have the same number of blocks?
(The order of the piles does not matter).
Solution(s) will be posted at the end of the month.
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Problem of the Month - December 2023
Math ProblemsWhich is a better deal, one round pizza that is 18 inches in diameter for $15 or two round pizzas that are both 12 inches in diameter for $15?
Solution
The 18 inch diameter pizza is a better deal. The area of a circle can be found by the formula A=pi x radius x radius. The area of the top of the 18 inch diameter pizza is about 254 square inches. The area of the top of one 12 inch diameter pizza is about 113 square inches so two of them would have a top area of about 226 square inches.