William B. Ward Elementary School fourth- and fifth-graders recently participated in their first Pi Day Competition. And what is Pi? It’s the ratio of the circumference of any circle to the diameter of that circle. Regardless of the circle's size, this ratio will always equal pi. In decimal form, the value of pi is approximately 3.14 – hence, the date of the competition.
Students worked in teams to compete against their classmates. The 30-minute competition consisted of 50 questions ranging from 100 to 500 points. The questions progressed in complexity as the points increased. The classrooms were filled with music, energy, and cooperative group work as the competition was underway.
"It was amazing to see students so engaged in solving math problems,” said Nicole Conlisk, Math Coach at Ward.
“Teams persevered until the very end as they were trying to earn as many points as possible. Their determination and excitement were truly captivating!”
Teachers and students already are looking forward to Pi Day 2023. “I loved Pi Day! I hope we can have it next year too,” Paxton, a fourth-grader, said. “I felt so happy when my team won. Math is so fun and my favorite subject. I love being challenged and I got to be!”