Program Overview

Math Circles is a free enrichment program for students in Grades 6 to 12. It runs for eight weeks each Fall and Winter, offering both in-person (Grades 6-12) and online (Grades 6-8 only) sessions. The program covers mathematical topics beyond the standard curriculum through problem-solving and direct instruction. Sessions are divided by grade levels, ensuring appropriate content and challenge for each group.  

Audience

Materials are intended to be accessible to interested students from Grades 6 to 12. There are four levels to choose from: Grade 6, Grade 7/8, Grade 9/10, Grade 11/12. Students can choose their Math Circles level based on their grade level and/or mathematical ability. 
Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. The CEMC strives to be inclusive and welcoming to participants of all gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and lived experiences.  

Format

Math Circles groups meet once a week, with participants attending the same afternoon/evening session for the entire eight weeks. We request participants ensure their availability and dedication for the entire evening/afternoon sessions they choose. This consistency will maximize the learning experience and foster a cohesive learning environment.
While Math Circles is open to all interested students, we would expect that participants attending are prepared to actively engage in the session’s tasks and work through and solve the problems presented at each session.  

Dates and location

Math Circles runs both in person and online at the Grade 6 and Grade 7/8 levels, and in person only at the Grade 9/10 and Grade 11/12 levels.

  • Grade 6 Math Circles will meet in person Tuesday or Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. ‐ 8:00 p.m. The online section will meet Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. ‐ 8:00 p.m. EDT/EST. 
  • Grade 7/8 Math Circles will meet in person Tuesday or Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. ‐ 8:00 p.m. or Thursday afternoons from 4:30 p.m. ‐ 6:00 p.m. The online section will meet Monday evenings from 6:30 p.m. ‐ 8:00 p.m. EDT/EST.
  • Grade 9/10 and Grade 11/12 Math Circles will meet in person Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. ‐ 8:30 p.m. There is no online offering for these levels at this time. The topics covered in the Winter 2025 offerings of Grade 9/10 and Grade 11/12 Math Circles are:
    • Grade 9/10:  Statistical Applications, Ancient Greek Mathematics, and Pigeonholes, Parities and Proofs:  An Introduction to Ramsey Theory
    • Grade 11/12:  Combinatorial Proofs and Binomial Coefficients, Induction, and Design Theory

Inclement weather policy

Regarding extreme weather conditions, please check announcements regarding whether or not Math Circles has been cancelled for the evening.  

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