Mathalon

The Women in STEM Mathalon is a friendly, competitive event with the goal of providing 3rd-8th grade students with an encouraging environment to demonstrate and discover their prowess in mathematics, and to inspire them to continue and further their passion for it. 

Currently, girls suffer from an especially notable gender gap in mathematics, in both school and extracurricular math studies. This is due to both negative stereotypes affecting girls in math, along with a perceived lack of other girls in mathematical communities, leading to a recurring cycle where girls are discouraged from pursuing math by the absence of peer groups. Through the WiSTEM Mathalon, we hope to help overcome the gender gap in mathematics by attracting all kids across the region to gather and compete in a positive environment full of like-minded peers, creating an environment where aspiring mathletes can interact with and inspire each other to continue pursuing and developing their passion for math.

The Women in STEM Mathalon competition will feature both individual and team sections. Both rounds will consist of challenging short answer questions designed to test mathematical creativity and insight. No topics beyond the junior high level will be tested.