Mathematics

Maths Olympiad and Games 

Each year, St.Raphael's engages in the Australasian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiads (APSMO), where high-achieving students in Year 5/6 take part in competitions designed to stimulate and challenge thinking. The competitions focus on problem-solving strategies and strengthens' students mathematical intuition. The Olympiad and Games competition comprises of 5 competitions across the year and is open to schools in Australia and New Zealand. 

Maths Explorer

This year, the school is excitedly taking part in the inaugural Maths Explorer competition. The competition is aimed at students in Year 3 and 4 and allows students the opportunity to collaborate with their peers to make decisions about the way they approach a problem, regardless of ability. 

Maths Explorer will develop students' skills and knowledge in the field of Maths problem-solving, and aims to build students' confidence within a non-competitive environment. 

APSMO Problem of the Week 

Petrol Price Comparison 

To compare petrol prices (cost/volume) across countries, you need to know the exchange rate for the currency (we use AUD) and use the same unit of volume (we use litres). Last week, regular petrol in New Zealand was selling for 2.859 New Zealand dollars (NZD) per litre, while in the United States regular petrol was selling for 4.699 US dollars (USD) per gallon. Which was the less expensive? (Use these conversions: 1 gallon = 3.8 L, 1 USD = 1.37 AUD, 1 NZD = 0.93 AUD)