MoMath November — December 2020 Upcoming Events
Dear MoMath friends,
Ready to be enthralled by mathematics all over again? Keen to welcome a friend, relative, or student into the wonderful world of mathematics? Well, MoMath has just what you’re looking for! In November’s Math Encounters, join friendly and engaging mathematician Sam Vandervelde as he explains why the elegance and power of continuity continues to amaze even the pros. Later in the month, The Liar, the Glitch, and the Axiom of Choice starts sedately enough, but promises astonishment before evening’s end. Krazy Kahoot and a mathemagical edition of Family Fridays offer all-ages opportunities for math-based entertainment and adventure, while kids-only programming includes Loving Math and a selection of Veterans’ Day mini-camps. The ever-popular Folding Fridays series continues, and you won’t want to miss the final few sessions of Pythagoras to Present Day, when Distinguished Visiting Professor Alex Kontorovich serves up an entertaining menu of math’s greatest hits.
Due to the current health situation, the Museum is temporarily closed. Please enjoy the following programs and activities, all available online. Additionally, many of MoMath’s programs are being offered for free or at a reduced rate for those in need and for those with MoMath memberships — please visit individual event pages for more information.
Missed the MoMath gala? Check out the Real and Rational discussion featuring Eric Schmidt (former CEO of Google, Co-Founder of Schmidt Futures, and leader of the NY state Blue Ribbon Commission studying the pandemic), Julie Gerberding (former director of the CDC and former head of the vaccine division at Merck; current Executive Vice President and Chief Patient Officer at Merck), and Nate Silver (Founder and Editor-in-Chief of FiveThirtyEight and a statistician specializing in election analysis).
MoMath at a Glance | |
Ongoing |
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Mind-Benders for the Quarantined!, weekly mathematical puzzles from MoMath’s puzzle master, Dr. Peter Winkler | |
MoMath Online: Student Sessions, educator-led sessions for pre-K to 12 students exploring math from home | |
MathPlay, the preschool program at MoMath | |
Accepting applications |
Expansions, the gifted program at MoMath for students in first grade through high school |
Steven H. Strogatz Prize for Math Communication — for students 15 to 18 years old | |
MOVES 2021, Mathematics of Various Entertaining Subjects — submit an abstract or activity for MoMath’s fifth biennial conference | |
Fri, Oct 30 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique, Halloween-themed origami designs |
Mon, Nov 2 | Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich |
Wed, Nov 4 | Math Encounters: “I’m Continuously Amazed: The Elegance and Power of Continuity” with Sam Vandervelde |
Thu, Nov 5 | Ask a Mathematician — Anything! with Alex Kontorovich |
Fri, Nov 6 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Sat, Nov 7 | Krazy Kahoot fast-paced family quiz game with Steve Sherman (free for members!) |
Tue, Nov 10 | Loving Math, a wild and crazy story hour for the little ones, with Steve Sherman |
Wed, Nov 11 | Online MoMath Mini-Camp: Numbers Can Be Puzzling! for students in grades 1 to 6 |
Wed, Nov 11 | Coins in Twoland with Joshua Zucker — session one of a two-session program |
Thu, Nov 12 | Coins in Twoland with Joshua Zucker — session two of a two-session program |
Fri, Nov 13 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Fri, Nov 13 | Family Fridays: “M-Cubed: Math, Mystery, and Magic” with Steve Sherman |
Mon, Nov 16 | Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich |
Wed, Nov 18 | Math Gym, a workout for your brain |
Thu, Nov 19 | Meet a Mathematician featuring Benedict Gross |
Fri, Nov 20 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Fri, Nov 20 | The Liar, the Glitch, and the Axiom of Choice — an evening of logic, data, and paradox (free for members!) |
Fri, Nov 20 | Equilibrium, MoMath’s adult evening of mathematical games |
Sun, Nov 22 | Tween Primes, the MoMath book club for teens and tweens: Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions by Edwin A. Abbott |
Sun, Nov 22 | Unlimited, MoMath’s mix-n-mingle program for students in middle and high school |
Mon, Nov 23 | Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich |
Tue, Nov 24 | QED: Homework Help… for Parents! |
Wed, Dec 2 | Math Encounters: “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do: The Art of Decomposition” with Jordan Ellenberg |
Thu, Dec 3 | Ask a Mathematician — Anything! with Alex Kontorovich |
Fri, Dec 4 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Tue, Dec 8 | Loving Math, a wild and crazy story hour for the little ones, with Steve Sherman |
Wed, Dec 9 | Math Gym, a workout for your brain |
Wed, Dec 9 | Statistics in the STEM Classroom: Real-Life Applications and Impacts |
Thu, Dec 10 | Mathematical Magic Tricks with Joshua Zucker |
Fri, Dec 11 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Fri, Dec 11 | Family Fridays: “Are We There Yet?” with Ralph Pantozzi |
Sat, Dec 12 | Krazy Kahoot fast-paced family quiz game with Steve Sherman |
Thu, Dec 17 | Meet a Mathematician featuring Sarah Koch |
Fri, Dec 18 | Folding Fridays — learn to fold unique origami designs |
Fri, Dec 18 | Equilibrium, MoMath’s adult evening of mathematical games |
Sun, Dec 20 | Tween Primes, the MoMath book club for teens and tweens: The Parrot’s Theorem by Denis Guedj |
Sun, Dec 20 | Unlimited, MoMath’s mix-n-mingle program for students in middle and high school |
Tue, Dec 22 | QED: Homework Help… for Parents! |
Mon, Dec 28 to Thu, Dec 31 | Online MoMath Mini-Camp, details and registration coming soon! |
Wed, Jan 6 | Math Encounters: “Life in Curved Space: From Magnifying Glasses to General Relativity” with Steve Trettel |
Aug 8 to 10, 2021 | MOVES 2021, Mathematics of Various Entertaining Subjects — MoMath’s fifth biennial conference in New York City |
Sept 2021 | MATRIX x IMAGINARY 2021 — the biennial MATRIX conference with partners IMAGINARY and Institut Henri Poincaré |
MoMath in the news:
Perplexing Perspectives: Conflicting viewpoints coexist at the crossroads of math and art (Scientific American Mind)
From NFL to MIT: John Urschel looking to increase diversity in mathematics (ESPN)
Art by the Numbers: At the National Museum of Mathematics, origami helps bridge the gap between art and math and finds the beauty in both (New York Times)
ONGOING PROGRAMS
NEW in 2020: Online tours and field trips to Composite, the gallery at MoMath — take a tour with artist Anton Bakker and explore the amazing Alternative Perspective exhibition
MoMath is thrilled to present a groundbreaking new art show in Composite, the gallery at MoMath — virtually! In Alternative Perspective, artist Anton Bakker takes us on a journey into a world of mathematical beauty with an added twist: a change in perspective seems to change the very reality of the object before you. Anton’s sculptures — executed in steel, bronze, or as digital interactives — fix points in space that, as the eye connects them, reveal harmonious alignments as three-dimensional paths. Lines, curves, knots, spirals, Möbius strips, optical illusions, and fractals — all are explored in this highly engaging virtual show. Bakker’s work is complemented by two special pieces: an unusual and surprising work by engineers-turned-artists Walt van Ballegooijen and Hans Kuiper and a creative mathematical sculpture by former Bell Labs scientist Alan White. Learn more about MoMath’s newest temporary exhibition at composite.momath.org. Book your field trip at fieldtrips.momath.org or your tour at composite.momath.org today!
Steven H. Strogatz Prize for Math Communication — awarded to students 15 to 18 years old
Now accepting applications
Are you a high school student who wants to share your love of math with the world? Enter this worldwide contest! Cash prizes will be awarded for compelling math communication projects, and award-winning projects will be posted online. To apply, visit strogatzprize.momath.org.
Expansions: an afternoon enrichment program for gifted math students — applications accepted for limited spots
Now through May
Reinvent math class with Expansions, MoMath’s afternoon gifted program. Featuring programs for math-loving students enrolled in first through twelfth grades, the Expansions workshops are designed and delivered by MoMath’s educational team to illuminate the wonders of mathematics, challenge and inspire students, and broaden their mathematical horizons. With topics ranging from fractals to cellular automata, these afternoon classes provide an opportunity for participants to learn advanced and fascinating topics not included in the standard K to 12 curriculum. Plus, students can benefit from enjoying math together with small groups of talented and focused young scholars. MoMath is currently accepting applications for limited spots in the fall 2020 semester, which is being conducted online. To learn more and apply, visit expansions.momath.org.
MoMath is delighted to announce that the high school track will be taught by International Math Olympiad participant and trainer Paul Zeitz, who is also the co-founder and Board Chairman of Proof School, co-founder of the San Francisco Math Circle, co-founder of the Bay Area Math Olympiad, and author of The Art and Craft of Problem Solving. Click here to learn more and to apply for the Icosahedron sessions for grades 9 through 12.
MoMath Online: Student Sessions for grades pre-K through 12
Mondays through Fridays
Whether your child is already passionate about mathematics or just starting to explore its wonders, MoMath Online: Student Sessions will expose your child to cool areas of mathematics not covered in school and stoke the flames for a lifelong appreciation of mathematics. Drop-in classes guided by an experienced educator are available every weekday, and registration is always free for families in need. For more information and to register, visit studentsessions.momath.org.
MathPlay, MoMath’s preschool program (with online classes)
Mondays through Thursdays
Whether your toddler is just learning to count or your preschooler is gearing up for kindergarten, MathPlay will instill a love of mathematics in each child through educational games, catchy songs, and intriguing problem-solving challenges. Led by preschool specialists, MathPlay will broaden your child’s math abilities, improve problem-solving skills, and fine-tune motor coordination and social skills. For more information and to register, visit mathplay.momath.org.
Math tutoring
Is your child struggling in math? We can help! MoMath is offering limited private tutoring for grades K–12 with certified teachers who have extensive experience successfully teaching students online and in the classroom. Whether your child needs help with homework or exam preparation, MoMath’s instructors are ready to help. For more information, please email tutoring@momath.org.
Origami birthday parties
Looking to host a one-of-a-kind online birthday party full of fabulous folding fun? You and your guests can explore the wondrous art of paper folding with an origami expert! With your choice of customized activities, parties can be personalized for all ages of birthday boys and girls — from children through adults, from simple to complicated paper art. Other exciting online birthday options are also available. For more information, please email birthdays@momath.org.
Retail Pick of the Month: Icosoku Puzzle
This puzzle uses an icosahedron as its canvas. To begin, place one of the 12 yellow buttons, printed with the numbers 1 to 12, at each of the icosahedron’s vertices. The object, then, is to arrange the 20 triangular tiles — each of which has up to three dots in each of its corners — such that the sum of the dots surrounding each button is equal to the number on that button. Once you’ve done it, rearrange the buttons and start again. There are thousands of configurations! The Icosoku Puzzle is available for online purchase from Additions, the shop at MoMath.
JOIN THE TEAM!
Are you passionate about spreading a love of mathematics? Contact us — we’d love to welcome you to the team! Send a cover letter, your résumé with GPA, and a 150- to 500-word statement describing your views on mathematics or a life experience you have had related to mathematics to jobs@momath.org.
Assistant Floor Manager
MoMath seeks a responsible, efficient, and energetic individual to interact with visitors and enhance their experiences in the Museum, at a level of excellence which will help lead the interpretive staff by example.
Digital Assistant
MoMath is seeking a Digital Assistant whose technical skills and drive for perfection will motivate them to ensure high-quality, user-friendly content. The successful individual will coordinate a busy schedule of electronic communications in support of MoMath’s communications team.
Technical Operations Lead
MoMath seeks a Technical Operations Lead responsible for maintaining and enhancing the infrastructure that powers the Museum, including networking, servers (internal and public-facing), exhibit control systems, audiovisual systems, and desktop computing environments. The ideal candidate would be a flexible IT generalist with a broad range of experience and the ability to pick up new things quickly, and be comfortable managing small teams and interacting with users, technicians, and senior management.
For details and to explore all of MoMath’s exciting job and volunteer opportunities, visit jobs.momath.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Folding Fridays
Friday, October 30 at 4:30 pm ET New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich
Monday, November 2 at 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Join Alex Kontorovich, MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor for the Public Dissemination of Mathematics, for a Monday evening mini-course (through November 23) studying the twists and turns of mathematical ideas throughout history, including a fresh look at the K to 12 curriculum and beyond. It’s never too late to join! Learn more and register at p2p.momath.org.
Math Encounters: “I’m Continuously Amazed: The Elegance and Power of Continuity”
Wednesday, November 4 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm ET (New York)
For many, the concept of continuity conjures up a technical definition from an early chapter of a calculus textbook. In fact, continuity is an elegant, powerful, and accessible tool that yields all sorts of lovely results. Investigate interesting and sophisticated challenges in an engaging exploration led by mathematician and Head of Proof School Sam Vandervelde. Special introduction by Alon Amit, Vice President of Product Management, Intuit. Learn more and register for free at mathencounters.org.
Ask a Mathematician — Anything!
Thursday, November 5 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Ever wanted to ask a mathematician something, maybe about a curious new idea you have, or a concept you’d like to understand better? Don’t know whom to ask? Here’s your chance! MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor for the Public Dissemination of Mathematics, Alex Kontorovich, will host this free, one-hour, online session. Learn more and register at askmath.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, November 6 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Krazy Kahoot with Steve Sherman
Saturday, November 7 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join MoMath’s favorite math quizmaster Steve Sherman for a family fun-filled game bursting with a wide range of entertaining questions for all ages. Is your family up for this lively challenge?! Learn more and register at krazy.momath.org.
Loving Math — stories, games, and laughter in a hilariously fun children’s event
Tuesday, November 10 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join master storyteller Steve Sherman for an exciting session designed for kindergarteners through third graders. If your child loves stories, games, and laughter, don’t miss this wild and wacky event! Learn more and register at loving.momath.org.
Online MoMath Mini-Camp: Numbers Can Be Puzzling!
Wednesday, November 11
Morning session: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm ET (New York)
Afternoon session: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Come join MoMath for online half-day mini-camps on Wednesday, November 11. Through interactive theme-based lessons and creative hands-on projects, math will come alive for each and every participant! Come explore the math behind such famous number puzzles as Sudoku, KenKen, and Kakuro. Play, ponder, and practice while learning the rules of the games and discovering the tips, tricks, and shortcuts used by experts for finding patterns and figuring out solutions. Become a master of these popular puzzles! Learn more and register at minicamp.momath.org.
Coins in Twoland, a two-session program
Wednesday, November 11 at 5:45 pm ET (New York)
Thursday, November 12 at 5:45 pm ET (New York)
The nation of Twoland has some unusual laws about money and its uses. Join popular educator Joshua Zucker as we investigate the implications of those laws and uncover a startling array of mathematical patterns. By thinking big and small about saving and spending, we will discover the deep reasons behind those patterns and uncover a path from the cities into the trees. Learn more and register at twoland.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, November 13 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Family Fridays at MoMath presented by Two Sigma: “M-Cubed: Math, Mystery, and Magic”
Friday, November 13 at 6:30 pm ET (New York)
Join Steve Sherman for an edutaining session of math, mystery, and magic. Wonderful math tricks, demonstrations, and stories abound: the evening will be filled with magical mathematics and mathematical magic. Bring something to write with and something to write on, and brace yourselves for a mathematical adventure — you will come out smarter, wiser, and happier! Learn more and register at familyfridays.momath.org.
Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich
Monday, November 16 at 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Join Alex Kontorovich, MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor for the Public Dissemination of Mathematics, for a Monday evening mini-course (through November 23) studying the twists and turns of mathematical ideas throughout history, including a fresh look at the K to 12 curriculum and beyond. It’s never too late to join! Learn more and register at p2p.momath.org.
Math Gym, a workout for your brain
Wednesday, November 18 at 3:30 pm ET (New York)
Students in 4th grade and above are invited to spend an hour online with MoMath mathematicians, independently working on engaging and beautiful math problems hand-selected by MoMath’s advisory council of math PhDs. Choose whichever challenges you like and explore them with the guidance and mentorship of an expert mathematician. If you love math and want to experience the incredible joy of mathematical discovery, you won’t want to miss this enjoyable monthly program. These very limited spots fill quickly, so sign up soon! Learn more and register for free at workout.momath.org.
Meet a Mathematician, featuring Benedict Gross
Thursday, November 19 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join host Alex Kontorovich as we bring diverse and talented guests to the MoMath stage to share their experiences, their stories, and their love of mathematics. In November, meet Professor Benedict Gross, George Vasmer Leverett Professor of Mathematics Department of Mathematics at Harvard University. Dr. Gross researches representation theory and number theory. Professor Gross is also an educator who teaches mathematics to the general public and to learners at all levels. Learn more and register at meetmath.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, November 20 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
The Liar, the Glitch, and the Axiom of Choice
Friday, November 20 at 6:00 pm ET (New York)
MoMath is delighted to partner with brilliant.org as we explore a series of beautiful concepts and problems, following the arc of a mathematical story that begins with simple logic and digital data compression, and that ends with the infamous Axiom of Choice. Come ready to explore two advanced but accessible problems, and one completely mind-blowing, hallucination-inducing paradox. Learn more and register at brilliant.momath.org.
Equilibrium, an adult evening of mathematical games
Friday, November 20 at 8:00 pm ET (New York)
Tabletop gaming is more fun than ever! Come join old friends and new for a fun-filled, adult evening featuring a broad array of mathematically rich games. Enjoy classics like SET and Connect Four, modern options from Ubongo to Skiwampus to Ricochet Robots, and even MoMath’s own twist on mathematical favorites like Hex and Nim. Prepare a snack, log on from home, and connect with new and interesting people, all while enjoying uniquely mathematical games, hosted by at the nation’s only Museum of Math. Learn more and register at equilibrium.momath.org.
Tween Primes, the MoMath book club for tweens and teens: Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions by Edwin A. Abbott
Sunday, November 22 at 5:30 pm ET (New York)
This masterpiece of science (and mathematical) fiction is a delightfully unique and highly entertaining satire that has charmed readers for more than 100 years. Flatland describes the journeys of “A Square,” a mathematician and resident of two-dimensional Flatland, where the social status of shapes depends upon the number of sides they have. The Square’s travels take him to Lineland, a one-dimensional world inhabited by points that cannot accept the Square for who he truly is. The Square then explores other worlds that open his mind to multiple dimensions of space. Join Tween Primes to discuss this book and talk about ways that we too can see beyond the dimensions of our physical world. Learn more and register at tweenprimes.momath.org.
Unlimited, MoMath’s mix-n-mingle program for students in middle and high school
Sunday, November 22 at 6:30 pm ET (New York)
Unlimited continues, in an online format! Middle and high school students, come spend an hour or more with your peers, enjoying interesting mathematical activities and interactive social games, all led by an experienced MoMath educator. Be sure to stick around at the end for a dance party! Learn more and register at unlimited.momath.org.
Pythagoras to Present Day: Math’s Greatest Hits with Alex Kontorovich
Monday, November 23 at 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Join Alex Kontorovich, MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor for the Public Dissemination of Mathematics, for the final session of a Monday evening mini-course studying the twists and turns of mathematical ideas throughout history, including a fresh look at the K to 12 curriculum and beyond. It’s never too late to join! Learn more and register at p2p.momath.org.
QED: Homework Help… for Parents!
Tuesday, November 24 at 8:00 pm ET (New York)
In today’s environment, parents are more important than ever in the education of their children. But what happens when your child’s homework doesn’t look like anything you remember? How can you help your child when you’re not sure yourself how to solve a problem? Join MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor, Alex Kontorovich, as he provides homework help for parents. Bring your questions to this open forum: we’re here to help! Learn more and register at qed.momath.org.
Math Encounters: “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do: The Art of Decomposition” with Jordan Ellenberg
Wednesday, December 2 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Among the most fundamental tasks of mathematics (or science) is to classify in order to understand what kinds of things there are in the world. A particularly satisfying form of classification is when we can show that every complicated thing is built out of a much smaller set of simpler things. In chemistry, we get this satisfaction from the periodic table; in mathematics, we find it just about everywhere, from numbers to polynomials to curved surfaces. Take a tour of some of these “periodic tables” of mathematics with mathematician Jordan Ellenberg and join us as together we explore the surprising relationships among them. Learn more and register for free at mathencounters.org.
Ask a Mathematician — Anything!
Thursday, December 3 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Ever wanted to ask a mathematician something, maybe about a curious new idea you have, or a concept you’d like to understand better? Don’t know whom to ask? Here’s your chance! MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor for the Public Dissemination of Mathematics, Alex Kontorovich, will host this free, one-hour, online session. Learn more and register at askmath.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, December 4 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Loving Math — stories, games, and laughter in a hilariously fun children’s event
Tuesday, December 8 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join master storyteller Steve Sherman for an exciting session designed for kindergarteners through third graders. If your child loves stories, games, and laughter, don’t miss this wild and wacky event! Learn more and register at loving.momath.org.
Math Gym, a workout for your brain
Wednesday, December 9 at 3:30 pm ET (New York)
Students in 4th grade and above are invited to spend an hour online with MoMath mathematicians, independently working on engaging and beautiful math problems hand-selected by MoMath’s advisory council of math PhDs. Choose whichever challenges you like and explore them with the guidance and mentorship of an expert mathematician. If you love math and want to experience the incredible joy of mathematical discovery, you won’t want to miss this enjoyable monthly program. These very limited spots fill quickly, so sign up soon! Learn more and register for free at workout.momath.org.
Statistics in the STEM Classroom: Real-Life Applications and Impacts
Wednesday, December 9 at 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Join us for a stimulating conversation about making connections between the real world and the classroom. This summer, physics and math educators participated in a two-day workshop on statistics and hypothesis testing, hosted by Dr. Allen Mincer, a physicist from New York University. The workshop was a collaboration between the National Museum of Mathematics, New York University, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Discussions centered on hypothesis testing as it relates to the trigger system of the ATLAS experiment at CERN and possible pitfalls in the process of hypothesis testing. Come hear from participating teachers about their experiences and how Dr. Mincer’s lectures and feedback helped them prepare classroom lessons with real-world relevance. Learn more and register at bnl.momath.org.
Mathematical Magic Tricks
Thursday, December 10 at 5:45 pm ET (New York)
Most traditional magic tricks require lots of practice, skill, and coordination. Mathematical magic tricks work automatically, all by themselves — sometimes you don’t even need to touch the cards! With at most a bit of misdirection to create the appearance of complications, Joshua Zucker will perform several tricks, teach you to perform them yourselves, and guide you through the mathematical thinking that makes them work. Using that thinking, you can even create new tricks of your own! Learn more and register at tricks.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, December 11 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Family Fridays at MoMath presented by Two Sigma: “Are We There Yet?” with Ralph Pantozzi
Friday, December 11 at 6:30 pm ET (New York)
Knowing what’s coming next — and when — can be quite useful when it comes to your daily commute, the weather, or the stock market. But in a world full of random events, trying to anticipate the future is a “dicey” game. Gather your dice and coins and take a walk into the unknown with Rosenthal Prize awardee Ralph Pantozzi. What can you know about the likelihood of future events? Step right up and push your luck as far as it will go in a variety of simple games of chance. Learn more and register at familyfridays.momath.org.
Krazy Kahoot with Steve Sherman
Saturday, December 12 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join MoMath’s favorite math quizmaster Steve Sherman for a family fun-filled game bursting with a wide range of entertaining questions for all ages. Is your family up for this lively challenge?! Learn more and register at krazy.momath.org.
Meet a Mathematician, featuring Sarah Koch
Thursday, December 17 at 4:00 pm ET (New York)
Join host Alex Kontorovich as we bring diverse and talented guests to the MoMath stage to share their experiences, their stories, and their love of mathematics. In December, meet Professor Sarah Koch, a world-class mathematician at the University of Michigan (by way of Cornell and Harvard). Sarah Koch’s work is, broadly, in complex dynamics, at once an ancient field asking basic questions about what happens when you repeat an operation over and over, and at the same time, a very modern one, whose beautiful fractals are illustrated on many a screensaver today. Hear how Sarah spends her time trying to understand these infinitely complicated structures that emerge in her work. Learn more and register at meetmath.momath.org.
Folding Fridays
Friday, December 18 at 4:30 pm ET (New York)
Origami expert Kathleen Sheridan continues this runaway hit series, teaching origami models to learners ages seven through adult. Every session will be different, and each session can stand alone. Explore the wonders of paper folding — there’s math in every fold! Learn more and register at foldingfridays.momath.org.
Equilibrium, an adult evening of mathematical games
Friday, December 18 at 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Tabletop gaming is more fun than ever! Come join old friends and new for a fun-filled, adult evening featuring a broad array of mathematically rich games. Enjoy classics like SET and Connect Four, modern options from Ubongo to Skiwampus to Ricochet Robots, and even MoMath’s own twist on mathematical favorites like Hex and Nim. Prepare a snack, log on from home, and connect with new and interesting people, all while enjoying uniquely mathematical games, hosted by at the nation’s only Museum of Math. Learn more and register at equilibrium.momath.org.
Tween Primes, the MoMath book club for tweens and teens: The Parrot’s Theorem by Denis Guedj
Sunday, December 20 at 5:30 pm ET (New York)
When Mr. Ruche, a reclusive Parisian bookseller, receives a letter from a long-lost friend in the Amazon bequeathing him a vast library of mathematical books, he is propelled into a great exploration of the story of math, from brilliant Greek thinkers, such as Archimedes and Pythagoras, to the 17th-century genius Fermat. Mr. Ruche decides that with the help of a talking, mathematically minded parrot, he will use these books to teach Max, a deaf boy whose dysfunctional family lives with Mr. Ruche, and his siblings the mysteries and wonders of numbers and shapes. But soon it becomes clear that Mr. Ruche has inherited the library for reasons other than pure enlightenment, and, before he knows it, the household is caught up in a race to prevent the vital theorems from falling into the wrong hands. Join Tween Primes to discuss this book and go on a delightful journey through the history of mathematics. Learn more and register at tweenprimes.momath.org.
Unlimited, MoMath’s mix-n-mingle program for students in middle and high school
Sunday, December 20 at 6:30 pm ET (New York)
Middle and high school students, come spend an hour or more with your peers, enjoying interesting mathematical activities and interactive social games, all led by an experienced MoMath educator. Be sure to stick around at the end for a dance party! Learn more and register at unlimited.momath.org.
QED: Homework Help… for Parents!
Tuesday, December 22 at 8:00 pm ET (New York)
In today’s environment, parents are more important than ever in the education of their children. But what happens when your child’s homework doesn’t look like anything you remember? How can you help your child when you’re not sure yourself how to solve a problem? Join MoMath’s 2020-2021 Distinguished Visiting Professor, Alex Kontorovich, as he provides homework help for parents. Bring your questions to this open forum: we’re here to help! Learn more and register at qed.momath.org.
Online MoMath Mini-Camp
Monday, December 28 through Thursday, December 31
Details and registration coming soon! Learn more at minicamp.momath.org.
Math Encounters: “Life in Curved Space: From Magnifying Glasses to General Relativity” with Steve Trettel
Wednesday, January 6 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm ET (New York)
Light endeavors to take the most efficient path between any two points, but matter or geometry can cause this path to bend. What would life be like in curved space? Join Steve Trettel, Szego Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Stanford University, as he identifies some telltale signs of curvature in the real world — including spooky ring-like mirages appearing in images from the Hubble Space Telescope — and takes us on a geometrical adventure that leads us to Einstein’s great insight: that gravity is not a force, but just a consequence of living in a curved world. Learn more and register for free at mathencounters.org.
MOVES 2021: “The Fascination of Puzzles”
Submit a talk or activity by Monday, March 1, 2021
Register by Tuesday, June 1, 2021
The fifth biennial MOVES (Mathematics of Various Entertaining Subjects) Conference, hosted by MoMath on August 8-10, 2021 and sponsored by Two Sigma, will feature an amazing lineup of keynote speakers, including Scott Kim, Maki Kaji, Tanya Khovanova, Oskar van Deventer, and Peter Winkler. While current plans aim for an in-person conference at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City, contingency plans also cover a virtual version of the conference. The conference is currently accepting abstract submissions for research talks and family activities from all areas of recreational mathematics, with submissions in the area of puzzles particularly encouraged. To find out more about MOVES, register for the meeting, or submit a talk or activity, please visit moves.momath.org.
MATRIX x IMAGINARY 2021
September 2021
MoMath is pleased to announce that it is joining forces with Institut Henri Poincaré and the IMAGINARY team to bring you MATRIX x IMAGINARY 2021. If you work with a math museum or want to create one; if you design, create, or operate math exhibits; or if you are involved or want to be involved in math outreach or creative math programming, then this is the conference for you! Join us for four days of sharing, networking, and learning at the fourth biennial MATRIX conference. For more information, visit matrix.momath.org.
ONGOING OFFERINGS
Integrators: The MoMath High School Volunteer Program
MoMath accepts a limited number of high school students for ongoing volunteer roles during summer vacation and/or the academic year. The Integrators program offers a unique chance to improve interpersonal and communication skills, explore mathematical concepts, and learn valuable job skills. MoMath students interact with visitors (on the Museum floor or online) and train with professional educators, interpreters, and managers. Students who participate during summer vacation commit five days per week. During the school year, this opportunity requires a commitment of approximately one day per week, typically a Saturday or Sunday, from September through June. Apply now for the 2020-2021 school year (online and/or in person)! Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply at volunteers.momath.org.
School and group visits
MoMath has more than a dozen great programs, from graph coloring to Möbius bands, for school groups visiting the Museum, in person and online. Bring your students to MoMath — virtually! — for a peek into the exciting world of mathematics, and see why kids of all ages love the Museum. Register at fieldtrips.momath.org.
Free trips for Title I schools
Thanks to the support of organizations including Con Edison and The Scripps Family Fund for Education and the Arts, New York City Council Members Mark Levine (7th District) and Carlina Rivera (2nd District), and several generous MoMath friends, support for Title I schools is now available. To apply for a free trip (online or in person) in the 2020-2021 school year, visit titleone.momath.org. Interested in sponsoring a field trip? Email donation@momath.org.
Beautiful Math
See what mathematicians think is beautiful about mathematics at beautiful.momath.org.
Spread the MoMath word
Like MoMath? Let the world know! Share your comments on:
- Twitter: @MoMath1
- Instagram: @momath1
- YouTube
- TripAdvisor
Join the MoMath community
Become a member today and help ensure that MoMath continues to deliver exciting and engaging math programs for all ages. Visit momath.org/join to become a member and receive unlimited access to MoMath’s innovative exhibits, plus discounts for select programs in Additions, the shop at MoMath. Become a premium member and receive early notices, invitations to exclusive MoMath events, and free registration for select events, such as November’s free-to-members events: Krazy Kahoot with Steve Sherman and The Liar, the Glitch, and the Axiom of Choice. Join now and take advantage of MoMath’s low rates. Note that while the Museum is closed, members receive free registration to select online programs, free access to recordings of MoMath programs, and exclusive invitations to members-only online events. To learn more about long-term memberships, call 212-542-0566.
We need you!
Interested in volunteering on the Museum floor? If you love math, would like to help others enjoy MoMath’s interactive suite of exhibits, and are willing to devote two 4-hour shifts each month, please send an email to jobs@momath.org with the subject line “MoMath integrator.” Please include a cover letter, current résumé, and a newly-written essay that, in approximately 150 to 500 words, describes an experience that shaped your love of mathematics.
We hope to see you — virtually — soon!
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