Why learn maths?
The perennial question asked by generations of ‘maths shy’ students was put under the spotlight recently when it formed the central topic for the inaugural ‘Maths Moot’ competition at our St Kilda Road Campus.
A debate with a difference - the brainchild of Head of Mathematics Ayesha Umar, showcased our commitment to fostering critical thinking and enhancing public speaking skills, while exploring the essential role mathematics plays in our daily lives and future academic pursuits.
Two preliminary rounds were held - one for Years 7 and 8, and one for Years 9 and 10, leading up to the Grand Finale, where mixed teams of students from across the year levels faced off.
Through their spirited debates, speakers expressed diverse perspectives on the relevance of maths, making for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.
In the finale, Charlie (Year 10) representing the ‘No’ case, argued, ‘It’s time we stop forcing maths on those who struggle and start teaching in a way that values all kinds of intelligence,’ citing the experience of students who have dyscalculia, the maths equivalent of dyslexia.
On the other side of the debate, Ari (Year 7) argued that although there are many languages around the world, ‘No language is spoken more than maths, nor is one more precise. It has its own vocabulary, grammar and syntax, and can express complicated ideas accurately in ways that are understandable across all linguistic barriers.’
The ‘Maths Moot’ was designed not only to highlight the importance of mathematics, but to normalise the varying abilities of students in this subject.
'It was heartwarming to see students and staff come together to celebrate these differing viewpoints, reinforcing our commitment to inclusion and the holistic development of every student at Wesley,‘ said Ayesha. ‘The debates not only illuminated the significance of maths in various careers, but also demonstrated its real-life applications, seamlessly embedding careers education into our maths curriculum.’
We look forward to continuing these important conversations and empowering our students to appreciate the beauty and utility of mathematics in their lives!
Special thanks to our alumni judges, Sara Pisacane (OW2021) and Jennifer Taylor (OW2023), for generously giving their time to inspire and nurture a passion for mathematics in our young learners.
