Maths Matters For You

Heads & Deputies
Secondary Teachers
Primary Teachers
Further & Higher Education Lecturers
Advisors & Inspectors
Educational Consultants
University Students
Mathematical Consultants
Overseas Delegates
and other Mathophiles

Welcome from the President

Our annual conference is the opportunity to understand and experience at first hand the diversity and vitality that makes up the mathematics community. It has treasures in depth. I usually go to a conference because some part of the programme attracts me. The interesting thing is that when I come away, I am invariably inspired by something that I didn't anticipate, but just happened to go along to by chance. I call it the serendipity principle. So the one thing I wanted to incorporate in this conference was lots of opportunity to see the principle at work.

The double meaning in the title of this year's conference is also intentional - we want to showcase some exciting and enjoyable aspects of mathematics; we also want to reiterate our fundamental view of the unique contribution that mathematics makes to society. In short, Maths Matters.

But that is only one part of our conference - the professional part. The other side of this coin is the social aspects of a conference: spending time with old friends and meeting new colleagues in a relaxed but inspiring environment.

We have asked Johnny Ball to open the conference in his own inimitable way. As his career spans 23 solo television series (Think of a number etc); as he has compered a Rolling Stones tour; and as he has three (no less) honorary doctorates, this will be an entertaining and exciting start to the conference.

The Hilary Shuard lecture will be given by Derek Haylock. This important lecture is always a platform for incisive and authoritative ideas about mathematical education. This year, Derek will share with us some of his experience and expertise of primary mathematics.

The speaker at our Annual Dinner is Caroline Series who is a professional mathematician at Warwick University. She has wide interests in mathematics and also that rare ability to communicate her excitement and enthusiasm for advanced parts of the subject to a non-specialist audience.

Susan Howson is also a professional mathematician, and last year she was the recipient of the most prestigious prizes for young mathematicians, the Adams Prize. She received the Prize for her work on number theory and elliptic curves, making her the first woman ever to receive the prize in its 120-year history. Susan was drawn to pure maths, a traditionally less popular branch for women, because of 'the beauty of the theorems'. She will share some of that beauty with us.

Simon Singh is a well-known science journalist. He is the author of two best-selling books, "Fermat's Last Theorem" and "The Code Book", and previously he was a producer and director in the BBC TV Science Department. He has recently presented programmes (The Science of Secrecy, Five Numbers, The Serendipity of Science) on British radio and television, and will close the conference with a lecture called 'Cryptography in the Classroom'. This will be a talk about the history of cryptography from Ancient Rome to the Internet. He will discuss links between mathematics and cryptography, before describing how codes and code-breaking can be used in the classroom. He will also demonstrate an educational cryptography CD-ROM that he has just developed, which includes video clips, interactive encryption tools, animations, history and a virtual Enigma. Free copies of the CD will be available to all conference delegates.

But those are just our keynote speakers. Alongside these, we have over 60 more speakers who will talk and enthuse about their specialisms. Whether you are teaching Reception, Year 6, Year 9, GCSE, AS, A level or undergraduates, or are involved in Initial Teacher Education or Continuing Professional Development, you will find sessions tailored to your needs. We have organised these so that there is a pathway through the programme that is suited to all delegates whatever their basic interest - Primary, Secondary, or post-compulsory education. In addition, we have sessions that will involve you in the delights of mathematics itself - just for itself.

I am looking forward to welcoming you to the 2003 Mathematical Association Annual Conference. Please look out for me at the Receptions, Publishers' Exhibition, Annual Dinner and most of all in the coffee breaks. I hope to gain your commitment to The Mathematical Association, as we aim to support teachers of mathematics at all levels. The last year has given us many opportunities to see that your voice is heard; we look forward to the coming year and the challenges ahead.

Barry Lewis

The Programme at a glance

Saturday 12 April 2003

Sunday 13 April 2003

Monday 14 April 2003

Tuesday 15 April 2003

About the Sessions

This is your chance to extend your mathematical know-how. Take a look at what's on offer during 'Maths Matters' and you'll realise you just can't afford to miss such an event. Great speakers and session leaders will provide invaluable subject knowledge for you to absorb and enjoy. Remember though, it's not all work; there will be the opportunity to enjoy good food and convivial conversation in between sessions and lectures!

Keynote Speakers

Johnny Ball, Opening Lecture: 'The Holy Grail - has arrived'
Johnny Ball will convey something of his lifelong love of maths and offer his thoughts on it's history and the way it is perceived, taught and absorbed by the young. He will finally discuss the power of modern mathematics and his belief that despite the general thinning of the curriculum, a failing to inspire enough students into a maths degree and, against all the odds, we have amazingly had gifted to us, a Mathematical Holy Grail, which can allow absolutely anyone the opportunity to perform mathematical feats far beyond our imaginings, just 50 years ago.

Derek Haylock, Hilary Shuard Memorial Lecture: 'Stretching Them Sideways'
How can high mathematical ability in pupils in primary schools be recognised and the special needs of such pupils be met? Examples from recent work with high-attaining pupils in primary schools highlight the kinds of experiences of mathematics that can stretch these pupils sideways, rather than simply accelerate them through the standard curriculum.

Susan Howson, Evening Lecture: 'Doughnuts and the International Banking System'
Susan Howson works in number theory, one of the oldest spheres of human investigation into abstract ideas. Her main interests concern elliptic curves, objects resembling the surface of a doughnut (the holed variety!) They have an important application to modern cryptography, but this was earlier totally unsuspected. Susan will use this example to emphasise the value of pure mathematics for its own sake.

Simon Singh, Closing Lecture: 'Cryptography in the Classroom'
Simon Singh, author of The Code Book, will talk about the history of cryptography from Ancient Rome to the Internet. He will discuss links between mathematics and cryptography, before describing how codes and code-breaking can be used in the classroom. He will also demonstrate an educational cryptography CD-Rom that he has just developed, which includes video clips, interactive encryption tools, animations, history and a virtual Enigma machine.

Traditionally, abstracts are not published for the following sessions: -

Barry Lewis, Presidential Address
Barry Lewis has a first-class honours degree in mathematics and BSc. (special honours) pure mathematics. Gaining a PGCE at Goldsmith's College, he taught mathematics for three years in UK secondary schools before being appointed a Mathematics Officer to the Overseas Development Agency. He established the Educational Project Resources, with Professor Sir Wilfred Cockcroft as Chairman, developing educational projects for international clients. Barry set up Maths Year 2000, and is currently a research student (PhD) in analytic number theory at London University. Barry is also a published author of maths textbooks and other books about maths.

Caroline Series, After-Dinner Speaker
Caroline Series is a Professor of Mathematics at Warwick University. She was born and educated in Oxford and was an undergraduate at Somerville. Having done a PhD at Harvard as a Kennedy scholar, she returned to the UK and has been at Warwick since 1979. She likes finding the patterns behind geometrical structures, and her research area, 'Non-Euclidean Geometry', is closely related to fractals and chaos. A lively and accessible exposition of many of the ideas is to be found in Indra's Pearl, a beautifully illustrated book co-authored with David Mumford and David Wright, recently published by Cambridge University Press. Caroline is a founder member of European Women Mathematicians. Her interests include playing the accordion and all things Green.

Session Booking Code:
(P=primary S = secondary P16 = post 16 G = general)

1.1 Alison Borthwick & Constance Tyce 'The Power of the Empty Number Line'
One of the most under-estimated resources in the primary classroom is the empty number line. So why not come along and discover how number lines can provide a very powerful, visual and dynamic model of the number system and of calculating methods. P

1.2 Jennie Golding 'Celtic Knotwork for Beginner'
Anyone familiar with the illuminated manuscripts of the Lindisfarne Gopels, or the stone Celtic crosses of the British Isles, will have admired the intricate knots and plaits that are an integral part of their decoration. The basic methods of construction, though, are straightforward (and accessible to Year 6 upwards). In this session delegates will produce the design for say an initial letter using Celtic Knotwork. G

1.3 John Sharp 'Sliceforms at the Primary Level'
Understanding three-dimensional space is hard unless you actually work with it; conceptualisation is not enough. Sliceforms offer a method of combining hand, eye and brain to learn about space, with the added benefit that pupils have made something which is attractive and which can act as a reminder of what they have done. This is a workshop for creating simple Sliceform models at the primary level. P

1.4 Ros Hyde 'Mental and Oral Work with a Graphics Calculator'
In this session we will explore some graphics calculator activities suitable for mental and oral work with a viewscreen and the TI-83 Plus graphics calculator. The emphasis will be on activities that promote understanding and reasoning in mathematics at Key Stage Three. Participants will have the opportunity to try the activities for themselves. S

1.5 Sue Cramp 'Short Mathematical Activities'
Short mathematical activities, which are fun, challenging, appropriate and accessible, can be difficult to find. In this workshop Sue, local teachers and PGCE students will share some of their ideas and encourage you to develop some of your own. S

1.6 Paola Iannone 'The Rough Journey to Reach a Coherent Schema of Proof'
In this session I will focus on the problematic transition from school mathematics to university mathematics. In particular, the attention will be on the perception of mathematical proof as students start their first year course in pure mathematics. The evidence will be drawn from the written homework students are asked to submit as part of their course. P16

1.7 NQT Forum
This Forum will facilitate the meeting together of those delegates wishing to discuss issues relevant to newly qualified teachers. P/S

1.8 David Forster 'Inversive Geometry'
The technique of inversion, invented by Jakob Steiner in the 1820s, is an elegant method for proving well-known results in the geometry of lines and circles, including Feuerbach's theorem. This talk will examine the properties and invariants of the inversive plane, and its relationships with other types of geometry. G

1.9 Phil Lodge 'A New Dimension To Mathematics In The Work Place'
Many people see little relevance in mathematics to the careers they are considering. However, a good understanding of mathematics can bring many benefits regardless of the paths that young people choose to follow. This workshop is designed to engage delegates in an exploration of these benefits and how they may be conveyed to individuals. G

1.10 Gerard McBreen 'Using Interactive Physics? to teach AS/A2 Mechanics Modules'
Interactive Physics? for Mathematics Mechanics Modules combines a powerful and intuitive modelling package with a gallery of 72 interactive models for teaching the AS/A2 mechanics modules. The session will provide an overview of this new product, showing how it can be used to teach Mechanics. At the end of the session teachers will be able to build compelling interactive mechanics models in minutes. No programming or high level ICT skills are required. P16

2.1 Lynne McClure 'Challenging the Mathematically Able'
In this session we will consider what constitutes an appropriate challenge for our most able mathematicians and look at what is already available to support teachers in the primary phase. P

2.2 Robert Rook 'Mathplot - Using Computers in a Primary Maths Classroom or with Struggling Year 7/8 Students'
This session will run through using technology (Mathplot) in the classroom for years 4/5/6 and struggling/integration students in year 7/8. Among the topics covered are counting, place value, number, fractions, time, money, to name a few.All attendees will receive a free licensed version to load on their school's network to use with their students. P/S

2.3 Tony Gardiner 'Adapting the English National Curriculum to serve the top 25%'
The current English National Curriculum and assessment (at all levels) makes it difficult for good teachers to lay sufficiently strong foundations for able pupils. We will consider what topics and ideas matter most in school mathematics, whether they should be taught differently, and how they should be assessed. S

2.4 Stephen Abbott 'The Key Stage 3 Mathematics Strategy - A Progress Report'
By the time of this conference, the Key Stage 3 strategy will have been monitored by HMI for nearly 3 years. This presentation will focus on questions like: o What have schools done and what should they be doing in response to the strategy? o What have been the benefits and the difficulties of the strategy? o How effective has the strategy been in improving teaching, learning and attainment? S

2.5 Hugh Williams 'Linear Patterns'
Linear patterns, sometimes incorrectly called frieze patterns, are those that repeat in one dimension. They can be classified into seven symmetry types. This session will look at how they are constructed, why there are just seven and how to construct a binary sort tree for identifying them. S

2.6 Elena Nardi 'Issues in the Teaching and Learning Of Mathematics at Undergraduate Level'
In this working session, Elena Nardi will draw on a series of research projects conducted with the assistance of mathematicians and their undergraduates in the Mathematics Departments at Oxford and UEA, in order to discuss issues in the teaching and learning of mathematics at undergraduate level. The work of the group will be focused on samples of tutor/student interview transcripts, tutorial observation protocols and student scripts. P16

2.7 First Timers Forum
This Forum will facilitate the meeting together of those delegates who are 'new' to MA Conferences and will offer guidance and suggestions on how to get the most out of such an event.

2.8 John Sharp 'Geometry off the Beaten Track'
Partly because of the mathematical tools historically available and partly because most mathematicians are convergent thinkers, there is quite of bit of geometry unexplored. Some quite simple ideas can lead to deeper things, for example one only has to look at fractals. With the computer, exploration can be quite easy and fast and many new interesting results found, some easy to pose but difficult to answer. This interactive talk is an exploration of some unusual geometry. G

2.9 Paul Metcalf 'An Inspector Calls'
This session will share good practice from the chalk face (now a multi media interactive whiteboard) as seen through the eyes of an OFSTED inspector. Time (and lengthy discussions) permitting it will look at all aspects of the inspection process ranging from teaching and learning to literacy and SMSC ?.you'll just have to come along if you are not sure what SMSC stands for. P/S

3.1 Primary Forum
This Forum will facilitate the meeting together of those delegates wishing to discuss relevant issues. P

3.2 Bob Francis 'Spreading the Good News'
Bob has recently developed ways to enhance teaching and learning of mathematics using spreadsheets and other aspects of IT, mainly for A Level. During this hands-on session he will demonstrate some of these ideas that have worked in practice. Delegates who bring floppy discs will be able to take away some interactive spreadsheets for use in their own schools and colleges. P16

3.3 Jan Jagger 'The Changing Shape of Geometry'
In January 1902, the MA formed a Teaching Committee whose first report, published in May 1902, was on the teaching of geometry. This book is the centenary celebration of this first report and is an amazing collection of the best articles on geometry and its teaching published in MA journals during the twentieth century. This lecture will give a taster of the book including some fascinating geometrical insights and some ideas to spice up your teaching. S/P16

3.4 Nick Lord 'A Polyhedra Safari'
Based on talks given to Sixth-formers, this safari will gently explore properties of polyhedra such as the formulae of Euler and Descartes and their implications. S/P16

3.5 David Mitchell 'Modular Origami'
Modular Origami will focus on ways to assemble polyhedra out of simple units folded from A4 paper without the need for glue, and on demonstrating how the folding sequences, assembly process and finished models can be used to present and reinforce mathematical ideas. G

3.6 Elspeth MacFadyen 'Maths and Work'
A personal account of a career in telecommunications R&D, which has to date spanned research, software development and customer account management, which will include observations on what mathematics can and cannot do, and reflections on the continuing value of a mathematical education. G

3.7 Helen Robinson 'Why "Women in Mathematics"?'
Why has the London Mathematical Society got a "Women in Mathematics Committee" when most education is coeducational? The small proportion of women at postgraduate level will change only if perceptions at all levels change, particularly as mathematical ability can be recognised early. There will be time for discussion. This should be of general interest, mainly perhaps secondary, but possibly primary upper years and anyone interested in mature students on degree courses. G

3.8 Wendy Fortescue-Hubbard 'International Experiment on Line'
In July 2002, www.perfect-times.co.uk was created as an international experiment as part of the BBC Tomorrow's World Roadshow. On the results page, comparisons can be made using box whisker plots. This site is to be developed to enable pupils and undergraduates to carry out experiments and have their papers published on the site. We need your help to make this a free useful tool for teaching some concepts in Statistics. G

3.9 Peter Wendes 'An Introduction to the Oriental Strategy Game of Go'
Go is the most challenging strategy game in the world. Peter will give a brief outline of the history and cultural context of Go, followed by a demonstration of how the game is played and then a practical workshop session, if time permits. A discussion of ways in which Go can be used to enrich and enhance learning and social interaction will close the session. G

4.1 Charlie Gilderdale & Jenny Piggot 'Making The Most Of Some Favourite Online Enrichment Activities'
The NRICH online mathematics club contains resources for pupils of all abilities and ages. Recently, the team has been working towards improving the site, making the resources more accessible in order to widen the community of users. The session aims to share ideas and stimulate discussion about our current and future work. P/S

4.2 Ruth Cullingworth 'How Adventurous Are You?'
This session will be looking at the use of paper-based adventure games in Key Stage 2 and lower Key Stage 3 classrooms. There will be some background about the games and how they are used
and then some practical work. Participation is a must for all present and prizes may be offered! P

4.3 PMC Team Member 'Primary Mathematics Challenge'
The Primary Mathematics Challenge is organised by the MA and is taken by thousands of pupils aged 10 and 11. This session will look at the 50 challenge problems set for these pupils in 2002/3. We will also consider ways in which the PMC can enhance mathematics in the classroom and raise the profile of mathematics in schools. Come with paper and pencil! P

4.4 Doug French 'Algebra in Key Stage 3'
Algebra needs to be learnt in ways that develop fluency alongside an understanding that enables students to use algebraic arguments to solve interesting problems and to explain intriguing mathematical results. This session will look at a variety of approaches and activities designed to give greater meaning and purpose to the early stages of learning algebra. S

4.5 David Mitchell 'Origami Tiles and Tiling Patterns'
A4 paper can easily be folded into simple tiles, which can be combined into large colourful tiling patterns on tables, the floor or wall displays. P/S

4.6 Alec Fisher 'Thinking Like a Real Mathematician'
Alec Fisher taught both Philosophy and Mathematics at University level. Arising from his work in Philosophy, he developed ways of teaching critical thinking which are now well-known. But he also developed work on how to teach mathematical thinking skills; this session revisits Georg Polya's work and enriches it with some new ideas for teaching students how to think like a real mathematician. P16

4.7 Hugh Williams 'The Geometry of the Tracery of Medieval Gothic Windows'
Several years ago, I discovered that the classification of the various styles of Gothic window tracery depended on rather ambiguous pictures. I have explored this topic and have come up with some mathematical rules for classification. This illustrated talk will show the results and other interesting geometrical facts that have come to light in this ongoing investigation. G

4.8 Tony Robin 'Perspectives, Photographs and Projective Geometry'
We shall look at the basic principles of perspective, vanishing points, the images of parallel lines, circles and spheres. From the photograph of a rhomboid, we shall see how to calculate its dimensions. Whilst we use some values of Projective Geometry, we don't cover all the theorems, which may be covered by others in the conference. G

4.9 Stephen Hill & Nick Ross (Norwich Actuarial Society) 'Actuaries @ Work'
An interactive presentation covering: § Just What is an Actuary? § A Mathematical Profession § Tools and Techniques § Transition from school/university to work § How does the examination system work? § Further Information. As an added bonus you can ask us why your car insurance is so expensive, and how to reduce it! G

4.10 Graham Griffiths 'Maths Trainers for Basic Skills Teachers'
The new subject specifications for teachers of adult numeracy mean that there will be a requirement for mathematics teaching on training courses for basic skills. This session will outline the skills that need to be taught and question who might provide this teaching. S/P16

4.11 Wendy Fortescue-Hubbard 'Business Maths via Broadband'
This is the report of how broadband is to be used to deliver maths used in business in an exciting and innovative project, in partnership with ACEN Digital College Wales. It is hoped that delegates will be able to have a go at the interactive experience. G

5.1 Rob Eastaway 'Making Maths Lessons Magic'
Children love magic tricks. So instead of holding maths lessons, why not have magic lessons? With the help of some enthusiastic volunteers, Rob Eastaway will demonstrate a number of mathematical tricks suitable for Years 3-6 (and in some cases suitable for older children too), and will describe how he has based entire lessons around them. P

5.2 Jenny Gage 'Enriching Mathematics with Video-conferencing'
We hope to run a live videoconference during the session with Rob Eastaway doing a Master Class with a group of school students. You will be able to talk to the students and to Rob about the experience, and see how this might enrich the normal mathematics lesson. We will also talk about what the Motivate project can offer schools, and how you can get involved. Even if your school doesn't have videoconferencing equipment, it might be possible for you to take part, so come along and find out about it. P

5.3 John Silvester 'An 'Areal' View of Geometry'
Euclid proved theorems about when two triangles have the same area, but never said how area is measured. So how might we set up the theory of areas? Examples of theorems about areas, theorems proved using areas, and some maximum/minimum problems solved without calculus. Extensions of Pythagoras' theorem. S/P16

5.4 Doug French 'Trigonometry in Key Stages 3 and 4'
Students often regard trigonometry as a difficult topic and yet it involves some very simple, but immensely powerful and interesting ideas. This session will look at how sine, cosine and tangent can be introduced simply and effectively in Key Stages 3 & 4, developing fluency with skills and applications and a sound basis for extending the ideas further. S

5.5 Robert Rook 'Mathplot - Using Computers in a Maths Classroom with Year 7-10 Students'
This session will run through using technology (Mathplot) in the classroom for years 7/10. Among the topics covered are graphing, consumer maths, fractions, geometry, measurement, mensuration, percentage, plotting, spatial relations, statistics, tessellations, trigonometry, probability to name a few. All attendees will receive a free registered copy of the latest CD to take home and load on their home computers. S

5.6 David Mitchell 'Silverflexagons'
Silverflexagons are flexagons made from strips divided into right-angle isosceles (or silver) triangles. They have faces of many different shapes, and flex in a wide variety of surprising ways. Silverflexagons form the basis of many interesting manipulative puzzles but are mostly just for fun. G

5.7 Barbara Cullingworth 'Puzzles from the Papers'
Many of our newspapers produce mathematical puzzles of various types and this session will be looking at some of these. I will be showing you an assortment but then concentrating on one type in particular. Expect to become fully involved in some recreational maths. G

5.8 Ron Knott 'The MA Website - What do you want to see on it?'
The MA Website has had a cosmetic overhaul recently, but what should it contain? As well as plans and ideas from the Web Editor, what would you find useful for your students and for your own teaching? Come and contribute your ideas and add to the discussion. G

5.9 Bill Richardson 'Mathematics in Scottish Secondary Schools'
The structure of education in Scotland is different from the rest of the UK (or vice versa). The content of the mathematics is broadly similar but its pattern and assessment is different. This session will consider a variety of aspects and will include a look at the papers offered in 2002. S

6.1 Nicola Hill 'Bringing Maths to Life'
A fully interactive session demonstrating many activities that have been used during Summer School lessons and on Saturday mornings at the Apex (Applying & Extending Mathematics) Workshops. Puzzles to challenge all abilities and to inspire everyone! P

6.2 John Ellis 'Interactive Worksheet Workshops Key Stage 2'
Using interactive worksheets, puzzles and tools in the classroom. An introduction to, and exploration of, material selected from a range of over 1600 interactive applications written using Excel. This session will involve Key Stage 2 material. John will also be on hand in the evenings if you wish to pick up some tips on how to write your own interactive sheets. P

6.3 QCA representative 'QCA Primary Update'
The QCA speaker will provide an update on mathematics at QCA. Participants will be reminded about separate level tests for Key Stage 1, about Using and Applying Mathematics in tests at Key Stages I and 2 and about revised optional tests. We will outline QCA's role in monitoring the curriculum and we will inform participants of current work in curriculum development, support and guidance. We will seek feedback from those who attend. P

6.4 QCA representative 'QCA Secondary Update'
The QCA speaker will provide an update on mathematics at QCA. Participants will be reminded about Using and Applying Mathematics in tests at Key Stage 3 and about optional tests within Key Stage 3. We will outline QCA's role in monitoring the curriculum and we will inform participants of current work in curriculum development, support and guidance. We will consider all mathematics qualifications and seek feedback from those who attend. S

6.5 John Rigby 'Symmetry, Geometry and Ornamental Art'
We shall explore various mathematical concepts associated with symmetry, such as symmetry types, fundamental regions, and pattern types, using an informal approach with the aid of many artistic patterns in black and white, and in full colour. Come and see the 36 ways of tiling your bathroom using a patterned square tile as fundamental region. S/G

6.6 Shinwa Cha 'Geometric Algebra and Dynamic Geometry Software'
An alternative approach to analytic geometry 'Geometric algebra' is a set of classical geometrical techniques for defining and manipulating variable quantities. I am currently investigating the possibility that geometric algebra may be an effective learning path for secondary students to approach analytic geometry, avoiding the 'rush to symbolism' and divorce from geometric ideas that frequently occurs. Geometric algebra is sympathetic with students' geometrical intuitions and, in the context of dynamic geometry software, it is a semi-abstract means to construct and manipulate variables, equations and inequalities without algebraic symbolism. In this session, I will offer examples of geometric algebra tasks for investigation and discussion. S

6.7 Jennie Golding 'Metacognition: How can it enhance your students' learning of mathematics?'
This session will describe the known relationships between metacognition and the learning of mathematics, and a small-scale research project to investigate its application with 16-18 year old maths students. Delegates will have the opportunity to try out activities and ideas from the project, and will receive a copy of the resources for teachers produced. P16

6.8 Bill Harper 'Exploration of Shape, Space and Geometry with Circle Scribe'
Circle Scribe's Disk Compass has suddenly opened up unimagined exciting possibilities with which to explore Shape. Space, and Geometry. A rapidly growing band of teachers and children will agree this will be a fast moving hands-on session including much we've recently learned from the craft world as well as polygons, cartoons, spirals, rotational symmetry, and geometry constructions. G

6.9 Gerry Leversha 'Catalan Numbers'
One of the best ways to demonstrate what mathematics is really about is to discuss problems which seem, at first sight, to be unrelated, but which turn out to be variations on a theme. The subject of combinatorics provides many examples of this - in particular, the so-called Catalan numbers. I hope to show how they crop up in a variety of different contexts and how satisfying it is to be able to reduce a new problem to one which looks different but has already been solved. The mathematics involved is well within the scope of single-subject A level, but it requires an ability to visualise patterns and a willingness not to be seduced by the lure of the formula book. G

6.10 Joyce Brown 'Mathematics and Bell Ringing'
This session takes at look at the mathematics of change ringing, with an opportunity to have a go with a set of hand bells. With 4 bells, there are 24 different "changes" that can be rung, but there are particular rules about the order of ringing these, which lead to symmetry, Fibonacci numbers, Pascal's triangle and networks. Group theory is involved, but this talk will not be at that level; the mathematics is accessible to all, and has been given to both primary and secondary masterclasses. G

7.1 Lisa Brookman 'Maths Quest'
Hollywood Bowl is committed to ensuring that school visits are enjoyable, value for money and informative, all at the same time. We offer packages from infant schools, through to 6th form colleges and university students. Sessions can be easily arranged to cover the needs and criteria of individual schools and will be supported by written material to take back to the classroom. P/S/P16

7.2 Jenni Back / Liz Pumphrey 'NRICHing the Daily Maths Lesson For Everyone At Key Stages 1 & 2'
We will show useful connections between the NRICH website and the Numeracy Strategy. Even the most uninspiring topics can be presented creatively and children will respond with enthusiasm and gain deeper mathematical understanding. We would like to present a workshop in which we teach a group of children and the conference delegates watched or joined in. We would gear it to KS1 & 2 but could do a bit for KS3 if necessary. P

7.3 Jenny Gage 'Teaching Maths with an Electronic Whiteboard'
This will be suitable for absolute beginners and those who have some experience with electronic whiteboards - but it is not aimed at experts. It will look at using various resources, including some from the NRICH website, for whole class sessions on the whiteboard. P

7.4 Douglas Butler 'Autograph in 1-, 2- And 3-Dimensions'
Autograph is also going 3-D, bringing the world of selectable dynamic objects to the visualisation of 3-D lines, planes and vectors. This session, by one of the principal authors of Autograph, will also run through a series of lesson plans using Autograph at Key Stage 3, 4 and post-16, covering topics from simple 2-D transformations, the Statistics project at Key Stage 4, and introducing calculus and trigonometry at AS level. S/P16

7.5 Michael De Villiers 'Examples of Experimental Investigation & Conjecturing With Sketchpad'
This session will present a few personal examples of new (or relatively unknown) geometry results that were discovered experimentally on Sketchpad before they were proved, as well as one or two still unproved conjectures. It is also planned to provide the audience with some time to attempt to formulate related conjectures that could be tested during the presentation. The purpose is to show how dynamic geometry stimulates visualisation and conjecturing, thus providing a priori confidence and motivation for looking for proofs. S/P16

7.6 Tony Sudbery 'Are Equations Getting Sexier?'
A light-hearted look at the place of mathematics and mathematicians in recent films, plays, novels and other arts. G

7.7 Cliff Cocks 'Mathematics and Cryptography'
The talk will offer a number of examples of how mathematical ideas have influenced new developments in the science of cryptography. G

7.8 Michael Fox 'Areal Coordinates: The Basics'
Areal coordinates are invaluable in studying some of the more advanced geometry of the triangle, especially concurrence, collinearity and the properties of associated curves. This session starts with the basic ideas, introduces some key formulae, and goes as far as the proofs of some non-trivial results. G

7.9 Stephen Kean 'ClassPad 300 - The next generation of handheld mathematics'
This session will introduce you to the latest development from Casio, the ClassPad 300. This is a new category of educational tool, incorporating a large screen with stylus operation, natural display of mathematical expressions, an in-built dynamic geometry application and the flexibility to create personal learning resources with 'e-activity'. S/P16

8.1 Ruth Cullingworth 'Let's Investigate Maths at Key Stage 1 And Key Stage 2'
Come along to work through some investigations that have proved successful in my classroom with children of mixed mathematical abilities. There will be some old favourites, as well as some (hopefully!) new ones. Could be used within the classroom or in an after-school maths club. P

8.2 Wendy Singleton 'Problem Solving and Investigations in Key Stage 2'
From May 2003, the National Curriculum assessment tests at the end of Key Stage 2 will have a greater emphasis on children's ability to use problem-solving skills. This practical session will offer a variety of interesting activities to help develop children's skills in both the solving of word problems and investigations. Using such things as puzzles, games and collaborative tasks, we will explore areas such as extracting information, communicating and reasoning. P

8.3 Liz Meenan 'Fresh Approaches to Shape and Space'
What resources do you use to teach Shape and Space? Ever thought of using visualisation, video, CDRoms, games and puzzles or paper folding? Come along to this hands-on practical workshop, have fun and go away with a range of stimulating ideas for immediate use with your pupils. P/S

8.4 John Silvester 'Factorial Factors'
Counting is the most basic of all mathematical activities. Examples will be given of well-known and less well-known results which have surprising and attractive proofs by counting; also, a divisibility theorem, which, while true in general, has an easy counting proof that (annoyingly) only works in certain cases. S

8.5 John Ellis 'Interactive Worksheet Workshops Key Stages 3 and 4'
Using interactive worksheets, puzzles and tools in the classroom. An introduction to, and exploration of, material selected from a range of over 1600 interactive applications written using Excel. This session will involve Key Stage 3 and 4 material. John will also be on hand in the evenings if you wish to pick up some tips on how to write your own interactive sheets. S

8.6 Post-16 Forum
This Forum will facilitate the meeting together of those delegates wishing to discuss relevant issues. P16

8.7 Colin Wright 'Juggling - Theory and Practice'
The speaker demonstrates a selection of the patterns and skills of juggling, simultaneously developing a method of describing and annotating a class of juggling patterns. Using elementary mathematics, these patterns can be classified, giving a simple way to describe those patterns already known, and a technique for discovering new ones. G

8.8 Bill Richardson 'The UKMT and its Competitions'
This will be another chance to discover more about the UKMT and its activities. There will be an opportunity to try some of the questions from an event which not everyone will have seen. S

8.9 Philip Jones 'Looking for Needles in Haystacks'
Robotic technology is increasingly being used to improve the efficiency of the pharmaceutical drug discovery industry. Find out how a mathematican became involved in the business. G

8.10 Stephen Kean 'Graphic Calculators at Key Stage 3 - Update'
The past year has seen a tremendous increase in the number and variety of users of graphic calculators in schools. This session will share the very best ideas and resources that support teachers and students to use their graphic calculators more effectively at Key Stage 3. S

9.1 Sally Taggart 'Running a Successful Maths Club'
This session gives hands-on experience of mathematical games, most of which can be adapted to suit different ages and abilities at both primary and secondary level. The games are in regular use in lessons and Maths Clubs. The session will begin with a very brief look at how games have been used to run maths evenings for parents and year 6 and 7 pupils, often with over a hundred participants (see the journal Mathematics in School, May 1999, p.35). P/S

9.2 Robert Barbour 'Managing Transition'
Moving from one school to the next often causes a check in a pupil's mathematical development. In Worcestershire, this affects moves from first school to middle, from primary to secondary and from middle to high. I shall be describing ways we have explored with our schools to improve this transition. P/S

9.3 Liz Meenan 'Using Multimedia Resources in the Primary Classroom'
Channel 4 has produced new multimedia resources to support and inspire the teaching of primary maths. Come along to this practical workshop and found out what they are. Have fun with The Number Crew, pit your skills against Jess and Jake in Puzzle Maths and see if Bad Man allows you to gain your maths cards in Maths Mansion. P

9.4 Douglas Butler 'ICT Roundup'
This will be a quick summary of what's new and exciting in ICT for mathematics. Douglas goes out of his way to keep an eye on the latest flash and Java application on the web, the best uses of MS Office for worksheets and exciting ways to use dynamic software in the classroom. S

9.5 Robert Rook 'Mathplot - Using Computers in a Maths Classroom with Year 11/12+ Students'
This session will run through using technology (Mathplot) in the classroom for years 11/12+. Among the topics covered are graphing, calculus, consumer maths, complex numbers, distributions, functions, parametric and polar graphs, regression, statistics (jnr. & snr.), trigonometry, probability and vectors to name a few. All attendees will receive a free registered copy of the latest CD to take home and load on their home computers. S/P16

9.6 Charlie Stripp 'How to make A/AS Further Mathematics Qualifications Available to all Sixth Formers'
'Enabling Access to Further Mathematics' is a national project designed to support A and AS Further Mathematics. It makes extensive use of ICT, working with schools, colleges and universities to maximise opportunities for students to study for these qualifications. This session explains how the project works and looks at the outcomes so far. P16

9.7 David Crawford 'Mathematical Magic'
In this session, I will look at some tricks, magical or otherwise, all of which can be explained by Mathematics and which I use to motivate my pupils. The majority of tricks presented will be different to those covered in my previous sessions and I would also be delighted to see anyone who has a favourite trick of their own that they'd like to present. G

9.8 Micky Harcourt-Heath & Pete Yong 'Dynamic Shape and Space Activities'
Ever wanted to know how to use knicker elastic in a mathematical way? Or how to make a frustum of a triangular pyramid from a piece of A3 paper? Well probably not?. But?. this session is sure to amaze and amuse you, whether or not you work with children or are just fascinated with things mathematical. G

9.9 Michael Fox 'Going beyond Morley'
We explore some diagrams derived from that of Morley's theorem, finding points, lines and curves with unexpected properties, some of which seem little known. Although the proofs use simple areal coordinates, a handout will cover the essential details, and no previous knowledge is required. G

In addition, we have the following Roadshows that do not require booking: -

Susan Hickman 'Hands-on Maths Roadshow' (Saturday & Sunday)
The Millennium Mathematics Project has a selection of hands-on activities that comprise a Hands-On Maths Roadshow. Many of our activities appear on the NRICH website and this session will explain how the Roadshow functions and how teachers could adapt NRICH activities for their own school event or maths club. There will be plenty of play time and time to consider ideas suitable for your pupils.

Ian Porteous 'Boxes 7 & 8 of the Liverpool Mathematical Society's Funmaths Roadshow' (Monday & Tuesday)
Drop in on Ian to discover the mathematical secrets of 'Boxes 7 & 8', designed for use with GCSE or AS level students. The Liverpool Mathematical Society Funmaths Roadshow now comprises eight Boxes, each of 25 activities on A3 baseboards, graded roughly to be suitable for use with school years 5 through 12. Each box contains some easy things, nicely presented, so that everyone succeeds.

Please note that The Mathematical Association reserves the right to make any necessary alterations to the programme.

Conference Arrangements

Conference sessions, all meals, and the Annual Dinner, will take place on the Campus of The University of East Anglia, Norwich.
Visits- Please note that all visits take place at the same time, therefore only one needs to be chosen and paid for. We reserve the right to cancel trips if insufficient bookings are received. A refund will be made or, alternatively, if you indicate a second choice we can transfer your booking to this. (If you choose to go on a visit, then please be aware that sessions 7 & 8 cannot be booked as well.)

ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation is based on occupancy of a room with ensuite bathroom facilities, on the University's campus.
PARTNERS
Partners are welcome, but may only attend sessions if they are registered as delegates. For those not wishing to attend Conference sessions, there is an option on the booking form to cover this (accommodation and meals). A limited number of double rooms is available (please contact the conference office at the Association).