This fast-paced group will start with a simple question about triangles and dive from there into a beautiful world of geometry, proofs, and hidden structure. Circles and squares have centers, sure! But what about triangles?
Note - Circle Prerequisite: Comfortable with angles, distances, and geometry basics
Beginning from one corner of a box, a ball embarks on a journey of reflections and surprises. In this circle, we'll explore how geometry can predict its destination, and the many mathematical structures and insights that can flow from there.
Note: There are no prerequisites for this circle.
Deep within a network of ancient caves lie piles and piles of mythical stones. In order to claim them, we just need to move all of the stones out of the cave. However, we must follow very specific rules to do so, or the mystic force of the cave will claim them. One wrong move and we lose all of the stones!
Come join us in this circle as we play and analyze games involving these mythical stones.
Note - Circle Prerequisite: Does not have extensive experience with game theory
We have found a treasure chest filled with gold coins, but the chest seems to be playing games with us when we try to take the gold. In this circle we'll examine how strategies can be created and compared, starting with a simple combinatorial game and moving on to more elaborate versions of the game. We will change the rules about what moves are allowed. Our exploration of the hows and whys of gaming will involve explaining our thinking and persuading each other that our thinking is correct.
Note - Circle Prerequisite: Does not have extensive experience with game theory
In this circle, we'll take our loot from the candy store and arrange it in different formations, and try to count how much we have. What if we get into some weird and crazy shapes? Could we stack candies on top of each other?! We'll see what happens — and we'll see what connections and formulas might come out of our candy-stacking adventures...
Note - Circle Prerequisites:
(1) Understands multiplication
(2) Can't prove a formula for triangle numbers
This circle is now open for waitlist. If we receive enough interest, we may be able to open a second section.
Let's peek into a mad scientist's lab, where she has — yes, that's right — machines that can transform animals into other animals! Each machine can do one specific transformation, and each room has a different set of machines. By playing with these machines and transforming some very-confused animals, we'll find rich and deep structure, spanning modular arithmetic, abstract algebra, and more. (All animals will be imaginary!)
Note - Circle Prerequisites: Comfortable with arithmetic, including fractions
*This circle may be co-led by a GMC Leader-in-Training, supported by an experienced GMC leader.
This circle is now open for waitlist. If we receive enough interest, we may be able to open a second section.
We will explore the difference between “I don’t see how to solve this puzzle,” and “no one can solve this puzzle — here’s why.” Can we actually prove that a puzzle is impossible to solve, that no matter how clever someone is or what approach they take, they won't find a solution? Is it possible to prove the impossible?
Note - Circle Prerequisites:
(1) Can express a logical argument
(2) Not an expert at invariants
In this circle we'll play games which might look simple, but contain hidden strategies. We'll take stones, avoid dangerous numbers, move across boards, and more. We might even change the rules to see what happens! Together, we’ll play with the intention to notice patterns, making predictions, testing strategies, and inventing new versions of our own.
Note - Circle Prerequisite: Basic addition and subtraction
