Intermediate District 287
Intermediate District 287
Intermediate District 287
Teaching & Learning
Fermi Math

Intermediate District 287
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Intermediate District 287
Intermediate District 287

Fermi Math League Program Information

"Fermites" access one Off-the-Wall problem per week online, work at the solution over the space of a week. A model is constructed and added to the email entry as an attachment. Creativity and wild topics make Fermi an ideal solution for home enrichment, small groups at school, independent study or neighborhood fun. Any interested student may register and participate. No carpools or schedues to meet!

Check out the sidebar for samples, tips, rules, scoring rubrics, checklists, and more.  


Fall 2008 session begins September 30.  Registration materials will be available soon.  Upon registration, user names and passwords are issued via email confirmations.
Schools wishing to use Fermi materials may pay a flat fee for the academic year.
Group rates are available for math classes. (see below)

 

A Fermi question is posed with limited information given.

  • How many water balloons would it take fill grandma's bathtub?
  • How many eggs will fill the Trojan Horse's body?
  • How much fabric would it take to make a camo-suit for Moby Dick?

A Fermi question requires that students ask many more questions.

  • What are the approximate dimensions of the bathtub?
  • Chicken eggs? Duck eggs? Dragon eggs?
  • Do you want that camo-suit with or without a hood?
    …and the list goes on.

A Fermi question demands communication.
A Fermi question utilizes estimation.
A Fermi question emphasizes process rather than "the" answer.

Does this sound like fun?
Do you like to measure, estimate, and play around with technology? Love Powerpoint?
Got a digital camera or a great camera on your phone?

Join us for the six-week fall session!

No car pools… all internet/email based.

(Where else can you take a six-week summer class for $40?

FAQ (frequently asked questions) page answers many questions.

 


 
The Math Maiden's Practice Problem Dino Model! 
 
Six week Fall session starts September 30, 2008.
Cost: $40 per student per team (Coaches/parents do NOT pay)
  • Students may work solo, or in teams up to four
  • Divisions for grades 1–2, 3–4, 5–7 plus 5–7 "web designer" division
  • All work done on internet via email—no boundaries, no carpools! Work with friends, classmates and neighbors.
  • Passwords and usernames will be issued after registration is received.
  • Model archive is available online to registered students and schools
  • Rules and tips are available to all online
  • Grade 1/2 problems are "family math" oriented—parents and kids as partners (students register and pay fee; parents do not pay fee as partner)
  • Perfect as enrichment model or for independent study; great small group activity.
  • No car pools—great math fun for neighborhood kids
  • Prizes—medals, ribbons, certificates, fame, possible Nobel prizes...
  • Student registration materials available in early May.

School Registration Form for Fermi Off-the-Wall Math League

Registration: Checks payable to Intermediate District 287.

Schools: We will take POs.

Complete forms and send to:

Fermi Math: attn Karen Newell
Intermediate District 287 Gifted Services
1820 Xenium Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55441

Questions? Please contact Karen Newell, 287 Academic Services
kmnewell@district287.org

Summer Session 08 Start Here!

Austin, Texas ,Start here! 

 

The Famous Fermi Trojan Chicken:  Fill With Eggs, Please!

Fun, Free Practice Problem 

 
The Fermi Off-the-Wall Math League is an internet-based math competition appropriate for enrichment, small group work and individuals wanting creative, technology- rich experiences. In its eighth year, the Fermi Math League is open to school districts and individual students world-wide.

 Divisions:

  • 1-2 (Family Math)
  • 3-4 email
  • 5-7 email
  • 5-7 web based
    *All Internet Based!
    Email Rules!

 

 

    

Dr. Enrico Fermi,
our hero

(1901-1954) was an Italian physicist best known for his contributions to nuclear physics and the development of quantum theory. In addition to his contribution to theory, he is also noted as a mathematical experimentalist. Fermi was awarded the Nobel Prize for his physics work on the nuclear process. Fermi Math is named after him - to commemorate his ability to estimate and "play around" with problem solving.

 

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Phone: 763-559-3535
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