Student Classes

The High School Circle is open to all high school students with an interest in learning and doing mathematics above and beyond the regular curriculum.

Interesting topics and intriguing problems will be explored in a friendly setting, providing ample challenges for high school students of varying levels. The topics include number theory, algebra, geometry, combinatorics, and more. The courses also address subtle mathematical ideas, including the nature and construction of proofs. Problem posing and problem solving are emphasized throughout.

In the descriptions of our circles given below, we mention the age and grade level of the student, but this is less important than mathematical preparation: there are high school juniors and sometimes seniors in our Math Circle A, enjoying mathematics right alongside freshmen and sophomores, as well as younger students who are ready for the challenges of our Math Circles B and C. If in doubt, please ask, and we'll be happy to offer guidance on choosing the right level class.

High School Circle A   (Register)

This course is appropriate for younger high school students, who are comfortable with regular high school material, including at least Algebra 1.

High School Circle B   (Register)

Students are expected to have completed an equivalent of two years of high school, and have a solid understanding of algebra, geometry, and elementary number theory. Experience with problem solving, such as prior NYMC or math team participation, is desirable but not required.

High School Circle C   (Register)

Students are expected to have taken pre-calculus and to have deeper knowledge of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, as well as experience with mathematical problem solving. Problems will require sustained effort, and writing proofs will play an important role. Students are expected to be able to solve the first few questions on the AIME contest (see 2009 AIME for an example).

The Middle School Circle is open to all middle school students with a strong interest in learning and doing mathematics above and beyond the regular curriculum. We aim to improve the students’ reasoning and problem solving skills.

Topics will include basic number theory, geometry, combinatorics, probability, sequences, and induction. There will be an emphasis on creative problem solving and thorough explanations. In addition, students will be encouraged to communicate their ideas clearly.

In the descriptions of our circles given below, we mention the grade levels of the student. As mathematical preparation in students varies, this is somewhat flexible. If in doubt about the right level, please ask, and we'll be happy to offer guidance on choosing the right level class.

Please consider registering for the Queens Math Circle (below), which is also at the middle school level.

Middle School Circle A   (Waiting List)

This class is appropriate for students in 5-6 grades, or others who have completed the equivalent of fourth or fifth grade mathematics. They should be well-versed in arithmetic, including order of operations, fractions, decimals, and percents.

Middle School Circle B   (Waiting List)

This class is appropriate for students in 6-7 grades, or others who have completed the equivalent of fifth or sixth grade mathematics. Students should be enthusiastic about mathematics and possess a strong interest in learning more about it.

Middle School Circle C   (Waiting List)

This class is appropriate for students in 7-8 grades, or others who have completed the equivalent of sixth or seventh grade mathematics. Students should be enthusiastic about mathematics and possess a strong interest in learning more about it.

The NYMC class at Queens College is open to enthusiastic students in grades 6-8 with a strong interest in learning and doing mathematics above and beyond the regular curriculum. There will be an emphasis on creative problem solving and thorough explanations. In addition, students will be encouraged to communicate their ideas clearly.

Students should be well-versed in arithmetic, including order of operations, and operations with fractions, decimals, and percents. Enthusiasm about math, and some success in the subject (for example, a 4 on the last New York State Math Exam) are expected. This course is appropriate for both new and returning students (as it will cover new material).

In response to students’ requests, NYMC offers a four-part AMC course this fall; three sessions in December, and a follow-up session before the AMC is administered in February. Priority will be given to high school students whose schools do not offer the AMC contest. (NYMC will help participants find a place to take the AMC.)

While NYMC does not focus on competitions, some competitions are a source of beautiful, intriguing problems, and provide exposure to a variety of interesting mathematics. The American Mathematics Contest (AMC) is such a contest. What started as a local competition sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) in 1950 has become the premier mathematics competition of America--reaching up to 400,000 students today. It is a 25 question, 75 minute multiple choice competition that covers a broad spectrum of high school topics.

A selection of problems from AMC 10 and AMC 12 will motivate the study of deeper mathematical topics and introduce interested students to this competition’s hidden mathematical gems. Check these links for some past AMC problems.

Please read the information pages at AMC 10 and AMC 12 to learn about the contests before applying for this course.