Terre Haute Children’s Museum and ISU Center for Mathematics Education partner to present math enrichment program

The Terre Haute Children’s Museum, in collaboration with the Indiana State University Center for Mathematics Education will present “Go Figure,” a math encouragement and enrichment program for third and fourth grade students. The program, which will be facilitated by Indiana State University student docents, will take place every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., beginning Oct. 21 and ending Nov. 18. The program will take place at the new Terre Haute Children’s Museum, 727 Wabash Ave., Terre Haute.

Patty Butwin, chair of the ISU Center for Mathematics Education Advisory Board, said one of the main goals of the program is to create a sense of excitement about being math savvy in everyday life.

“Many times young people become discouraged from continuing in mathematics due to the routine, drill, and repetition required in the mathematics classroom setting,” Butwin said. “We believe that through hands-on activities and encouragement, more kids will be inspired to enjoy the mathematics around them and to continue their pursuit of mathematics in college which could lead to careers in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.”

Lynn Hughes, executive director of the Terre Haute Children’s Museum, said each week of the program will have a different theme, allowing students to see the math in football, golf, cooking, space and carnivals.

“There are many kids, and even adults, that are afraid of math.” Hughes said “Somewhere along the way, they get discouraged, and then develop a general attitude that math is too hard, but by showing kids the math in football and cooking, we are showing kids that math can be fun.”

The cost to attend all five sessions is $30 for members of the Terre Haute Children’s Museum and $35 for non-members. Class size is limited. Click here to download a flyer, GoFigure-Fall2010, or for more information, contact Rachael Nickel by email at rnickel@terrehautechildrensmuseum.com or by phone at 812-235-5548.

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