Wide World of Maths

Australian Mathematicians

What does the names Ross Street, Cheryl Praeger, Terrance Tao and John Coates have in common? They are some of the Australian Mathematicians that have recently been researched by the elective group Wide World of Maths. 

The Year 9 students were set the task to research an Australian Mathematician, then were able to study the Mathematicians chosen by other students. The students were further informed by participating in a lecture from special guest, Dr Andrew Cullen, from the University of Melbourne. 

Here are some of the presentations and student reflections:

I was surprised how many hours Terrance has put in to perfect his Mathematics. It was interesting that Dr Cullen failed Year 11 Maths and now has a Doctorate in Mathematics. ~ Ben S

When I researched John Coates I was surprised how his work took him to so many countries. I wanted to know more of Dr Cullen’s work on the zombie simulation. ~ Ben B

I was surprised Cheryl Prager had multiple PhDs and that Dr Cullen had attended Regency Park Primary School. Dr Cullen explained the modelling that was used during the covid pandemic. ~ Bethie T

I was interested that Dr Cullen works in AI and is often called upon to find problems with programs and mess them up. ~ Martin W

Most students commented on the fact that Terrence Tao achieved his first degree by the age of 16. 

Leanne Wilson

Mathematics