Sessions and Homework

The sessions of the Math Circle will be a combination of lectures on mathematical theory and problem solving techniques, discussions, and problem-solving practices. Depending on the particular topic and instructor, a session may emphasize one component, or it may incorporate all of these components equally; its style can be anything from ``lecture'' to ``seminar''. Each instructor will bring into the classroom his or her own style of teaching. We believe that such a diversity will greatly benefit the participants in terms of their own mathematical future. Some instructors will give you handouts, and some will require that you take notes; some may give you a 5-10 minute break in the middle of the session, and some will be so eager to continue with the session that they may simply skip the break. So, come to the Circle with open minds and expect the unexpected!

The topics of the sessions will also cover various mathematical areas. A given student may find some areas far more difficult than other, more familiar areas. The level of the students in the Math Circle will also vary from beginners to nationally and internationally recognized problem solvers. Such diversity of mathematical background and competition experience should be welcomed by all participants and should be used as efficiently as possible for the exchange of ideas and for the mutual benefit of everyone.

This diversity, however, will naturally require different amount and content of individual work outside of the Circle. There will be no mandatory homework assignments to be collected and graded . Ordinarily, each session will end with a few problems, on which students will be expected to work as their homework. If a session is part of a series of lectures given by the same instructor, it can be expected that the homework problems will be discussed in a later session, so students should review them in preparation for the upcoming lecture in the series.

If you feel certain gaps in your background on some topics, be assured that probably you are not the only one. You can ask the instructors and assistant for relevant literature and problems. We have established an e-mail bulletin board for exchange of ideas on homework problems and discussion of related math topics at:

1. Inversion in the Plane. Part I, by Zvezdelina Stankova-Frenkel