Mathematics News

End Of Term 2

Victorian High Ability Program – Term 2 Highlights

This term, Masaki Ng, Alexander Archer, Harrison Cook, Carlos Gaitan, Seth Hall, Harry McKinnon Spyros Saisanas, Divyam Setia and Mars Cruickshank were selected to participate in the Victorian High Ability Program (VHAP) in Mathematics.

This Department of Education initiative provides enrichment opportunities for high-achieving students, allowing them to explore advanced content beyond the standard classroom curriculum.

In Mathematics, students explored a range of engaging and challenging topics, including paradoxes, the Fibonacci Sequence, and strategies for solving problems using the "Three Es": Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Elegance.

The program encouraged students to think critically, identify patterns, and approach mathematics with creativity and logic.

One of our students shared a reflection on the mathematics program, saying:

This term, I participated in the Victorian High Ability Program, a course designed for advanced maths learners that differed from the regular school curriculum. During the first few weeks, we began with simpler topics, focusing on finding more efficient ways to solve basic equations. We used a mnemonic, the Three Es — Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Elegance — to help us solve problems more quickly and thoughtfully.

Throughout the program, I learnt a variety of new concepts, including paradoxes like the Grandfather Paradox, which explores the idea of altering time by going back into the past. My favourite topic was the Fibonacci Sequence. I had some prior knowledge of it, but this program helped me fully understand what it is and how it works.

One challenge I faced was understanding Repetends, which I initially found very confusing. However, after asking a few questions and engaging more deeply, I came to understand what repetends are and how they are used in mathematics.

After nine weeks, the program came to an end. The outcome was incredibly valuable, especially to me, as I walked away with knowledge I didn’t even know existed. The main goal of the program was to introduce us to ideas and concepts we wouldn’t normally learn in regular classes.

Although the program challenged me at times, it was a great learning experience, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to explore new ideas in the world of mathematics.

By Masaki Ng (Year 7)

The VHAP program ran for nine weeks and was delivered online by specialist educators. Our students embraced the experience with curiosity and confidence, demonstrating excellent commitment to their learning.

We congratulate all participants on their achievements and look forward to seeing how they continue to extend their learning in the future.