Maths
Essex Heights Primary School
Mathematics and Statistics Research Challenge
Earlier this year, our school participated in the University of Melbourne Mathematics and Statistics Research Challenge. This statewide program invites students to explore rich mathematical problems, investigate ideas, and present their findings clearly and creatively.
In August, 26 students submitted projects. This is an outstanding achievement. The level of thinking, persistence and curiosity shown by our students was impressive. Each student selected one investigation from the Junior Division booklet, which included topics such as:
- The Peanut Butter Mystery
- Triangle Perimeters
- Flip Flop Torus
- Public Teleportation Network
- Number Spiral
These problems encouraged students to test ideas, look for patterns, make careful calculations and explain their reasoning. Many students went beyond the core task and extended the investigation in thoughtful and creative ways.
Featured Student Projects
With parent permission, we are pleased to highlight two examples of the work produced by our students.
Tanush (Year 5) – Public Teleportation Network
Tanush explored Topic J-10 and analysed the cost and efficiency of different routes in the fictional Newmathsland transport network. He compared travel paths, evaluated whether a $10 budget was enough to visit every portal, and suggested new routes that would improve the system.
View Tanush’s project here: https://shorturl.at/hWQ20
Tanisha (Year 5) – Kitchen Tiles
Tanisha investigated Topic J-02, which involved choosing the most efficient tile shape for a kitchen floor. She compared square and right-angled triangle tiles, calculated waste, and tested multiple approaches before deciding on the most practical solution. Her detailed working and clear explanations showed excellent mathematical reasoning.
View Tanisha’s project here: https://shorturl.at/8R1uU
Well done to all participating students
We congratulate every student who took part in the challenge. The way they approached unfamiliar problems, justified their thinking and communicated their ideas shows strong growth as young mathematicians. Thank you to families for the encouragement and support you provided throughout the process.
Kelvin Tang
Mathematics Learning Specialist