The National Assessment of Educational Progress has released the results of its 2013 test, which was given to fourth and eighth graders. The test consists of two portions, reading and math. Scores show slight improvement from last year, but achievement gaps still exist between ethnicities and income levels. What can these gains be attributed to, and what still needs to be done? Click here to find out more!
We Use Math Blog
Who Says Math Has to Be Boring?
“Nearly 90 percent of high school graduates say they’re not interested in a career or a college major involving science, technology, engineering, or math.” Why do students lack interest in STEM careers? What can be done to help students enjoy these subjects more? Click here to find out!
Predicting Winter Olympics Leaders
“A study published in the International Journal of Economic Policy in Emerging Economies suggest that the USA will win the most models followed by Germany and Canada and then Russia, with China arriving ninth.” Read more here about the mathematical model prepared by economist Vladimir Andreff which predicts the leaders of the 2014 Winter Olympics.
The Numbers Guy
Looking for a new blog to follow? Look no further than “The Numbers Guy, ” a Wall Street Journal blog. Topics range far and wide, but always are tied to numbers. Some genres in past articles have included sports, food, and history. Click here for your new blog addiction! Additionally, you can follow The Numbers Guy on Twitter: @WSJnumbersguy.
International Mathematical Olympiad
The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is the oldest and largest scientific Olympiad. During each of the two days of the competition, participants take a 4.5 hour, 3-question exam. The deceptively simple exam questions require much mathematical talent to solve. In July 2013, the 54th IMO was held in Santa Maria, Columbia. The United States came in third place behind China (1) and South Korea (2). For more information and a complete list of rankings, click here.