APPLICATION
MATH AND RELATED SCIENCES CAMP
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLANDEASTERN SHORE
HIGH SCHOOL SESSION:
JUNE 26 – JULY 9, 2011
MIDDLE SCHOOL SESSION:
JULY 17 – 30, 2011
ABOUT THE MARS CAMP
The Math and Related Sciences (MARS) Camp is a two-week residential, summer enrichment program for high school and middle school students. MARS provides an array of courses aimed at engaging students in mathematical and scientific problem solving using various innovative techniques. Through participation in any one of the courses, students will better understand the role of mathematics and science in a society increasingly dependent on technology. Studentswill emerge from the Camp with increased confidence in themselves as problem solvers. Experimentation and in-depth exploration of mathematics and science are the hallmarks of the academic programs at MARS. A philosophy focused on cooperative learning, affective education, and intense personal involvement finds expression not only in the academic program,but also in a broad selection of recreational and informative evening activities.
LOCATION
University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Maryland
DATES
High School Session: June 26 to July 9, 2011 Middle School Session: July 17 -30, 2011
COST
$775 for room, board, and tuition per two-week session. Due to several generous new contributors, a limited number of scholarships are available this year.
QUALIFICATIONS
Students entering grades 6-12 with enthusiasm for mathematics and science as well as a strong mathematical aptitude are encouraged to apply. For additional application forms, call the administrative offices at (410) 651-7958 or go to the MARS Camp Web site at
THE SELECTION PROCESS
Selection of students is based on a composite review of the student essay, problem solving skills as applied to specific mathematically related questions, teacher recommendations, and test scores if available. In cases of an overwhelming response, a lottery system may be used. Applications with completed teacher recommendations must be postmarked no later than April 16, 2011. Accepted applicants will be notified by May 12. Upon acceptance, you will receive further information about the program. Please do not make any inquiries before this date.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Minority, females, and physically challenged students are encouraged to apply.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Read the course descriptions in this brochure which are of interest to you. Using the instructions below, complete the application.
FOR YOU, THE STUDENT
1. Complete the Student Application Form and have your parent/guardian sign the permission statement.
2. Follow the Student Essay instructions.
3. Follow the Problem Solving instructions.
4. Have your parent/guardian complete the Financial Assistance/Scholarship Application if desired.
5. Submit your Student Application Form, Student Essay Form and Problem Solution to:
The Math and Related Sciences Camp
University of MarylandEastern Shore
Hazel Hall
Princess Anne, MD 21853
no later than April 16, 2011.
6. Give two teachers the Teacher Recommendation Form and have them follow the instructions below. Make sure you print your name on the form. (You may include standardized test scores if available. We understand that these vary from school to school. They are optional. If you choose to include test scores, give the Test Data Form to your guidance counselor.)
FOR YOUR TEACHERS
1. Give the Teacher Recommendation Form to two teachers to complete. These teachers should be able to rate you in mathematics or science. The teachers may be school teachers or private instructors. Have your teachers submit the Teacher Recommendation Form to:
The Math and Related Sciences Camp
University of MarylandEastern Shore
Hazel Hall
Princess Anne, MD 21853
no later than April 16, 2011.
2. (Optional) Give the Test Data Form to your guidance counselor to complete. Have your guidance counselor submit the Test Data Form to:
The Math and Related Sciences Camp
University of MarylandEastern Shore
Hazel Hall
Princess Anne, MD 21853
no later than April 16, 2011.
Permission Statement: I hereby grant permission for my child to apply to this program and for school officials to provide the teacher recommendations. I understand that the teacher recommendations will be maintained in confidence and that applications will not be returned to students. Also, I will allow my child to complete questionnaires designed to evaluate the program. I further permit my child to participate in media events designed to promote the benefits of education for the gifted.
Name of parent/guardian ______
Daytime phone ( ___) ______E-mail address ______
Signature of parent/guardian ______Date______
HIGH SCHOOL COURSES: June 26 - July 9, 2011
Courses listed below are for students entering grades 9-12 in the Fall of 2011.
HS01 Advanced Problem Solving - In this course, you will have a two-week mentor relationship with a professional mathematician. Real-life problems requiring extensive study will be presented to your class. Students working alone or in small groups will each select a problem. They will identify the problem, examine the possible methods of solution, and conduct research and experiments. Computers will be a basic tool used to complete the study, and students with previous programming experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Finally, using these research methods, students will draw conclusions and present their findings as part of a manuscript that will be submitted for publication.
HS02 Computers From the Inside Out - This course is a hands-on overview of the foundations of computer science. Starting with an historical perspective, studentswill be introduced to the mathematics, architecture and thelanguage of computers. After building and configuring acomputer, students will network the computers and writeapplications that use this network. Students will also be made aware of the potential problems in today’s computer security environment and ways to protect against them.With the continual andrapid advance of technology, it is crucial students have afirm foundation of knowledge. We prefer that students have programming experience, however it is not required.
HS03 Chaos Theory and Fractal Geometry -What do weather patterns, population dynamics, and stock market trends have in common? How can quadratic functions, imaginary numbers, and affine transformations be used to create dazzling computer images and compress them into just a few numbers? All of these phenomena can be understood with the mathematics of Chaos Theory and Fractal Geometry. In this course, you will use computers like microscopes to explore a brand new area of mathematics that has challenged our thinking but is not yet completely understood. Along the way, you will learn some important ideas from advanced mathematics.
HS04 Web Site Design- This course will focus on the practical steps to plan, organize, and design a web site from start to finish. Students will learn the basics to create a dynamic interactive website. Students will also be made aware of the potential problems in today’s computer security environment and ways to protect against them. They will be introduced to HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and JAVA.
HS05 Classical Cryptanalysis: The Science of Codebreaking - The ability to communicate informationsecurely has become increasingly important in today’s technologydriven society. Join us in this course and you willlearn some of the mathematics used to analyze a variety ofdifferent classical encryption systems. You will also get toapply these ideas and develop your problem-solving skillsas you make sense of a collection of challengingly encryptedinformation. This is a particularly important topic since today’s computers must be securely protected from very sophisticated cyber attacks.
HS06 Operations Research in Real Life – How do businesses maximize the profits they make from their manufacturing? How does the government increase the efficiency and effectiveness of its military and civilian programs? How can you learn to make complex decisions without complete information? Operations research is the answer and this course will show you how. From choosing the best route for pizza delivery to choosing a college with multiple criteria, this course will give you incite into how decisions are made in the real world.
MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSES: July 17- 30, 2011
The courses listed below are for students entering grades 6 through 9 in the Fall of 2011.
MS01 The Mathematical Mind - Are you intrigued by the concept of infinity? Are you curious about strange kinds of numbers and operations where 3 + 6 = 2 and 3I * 2I = -6? Do you love the challenge of solving problems that require deep insight and persistent thought? In this course you will learn to think like a mathematician. Find out how telling time is like snapping rubber bands and how relatives are like musical pitches. You will encounter problems that seem deceptively simple, some of which have never been solved. You will even have the opportunity to make up your own unusual number systems and problems.
MS02 Codes, Games and Chance - Siht daer uoy nac? If you can, you may be ready for the world of computer codes, the mathematics of games, and the secrets of probability and statistics aid in the solving of codes and ciphers. This is a particularly important topic since today’s computers must be securely protected from very sophisticated cyber attacks. You will design games of chance and play those designedby the class. You will be able to tell if a game is truly fair. What does sending messages in code have to do with your CD player? Sign up for this class and trap an error!
MS03 Math and Art- Can mathematics be beautiful? Can art be mathematical? If you think the answer might be “yes” then join us in Math and Art. We’ll look at the tessellations of M.C. Escher, unusual sounding patterns in 20th century music, how to create your own fractal, the mathematical ideas behind rhythm, harmony, fractals, tessellating patterns and the problem of trying to draw 3-dimensional objects on 2-dimensional pieces of paper.
MS04 Mathematics and Architecture - What do architecture and mathematics have in common? Plenty! In this course you will use problem solving skills and applied mathematics to enter the mind of an architect. Using ratios, measuring skills, geometry, and algebra you will analyze the building structure of some of the greatest buildings in the world like the Pyramids, the EiffelTower, the Parthenon, etc. You will even get to design a building of your own.
MS05 Digital Logic and Robotics - The class is designed to allow students to explore the fascinating world of Robotics through hands on activities in digital electronics, computer code and programming, and robotic design and applications. You will explore robotic operations and career opportunities through activities utilizing simple programming language and assorted robots, where you will have the opportunity to see how they function and are used in industry, exploration, and public service. You will also be made aware of the potential problems in today’s computer security environment and ways to protect against them. You will have the opportunity to experience all phases of robotics from construction and design to programming and control of these units.
MS06 Bay Rangers: Environmental Studies – Have you ever wondered if fish or oysters or clams get sick and suffer the same symptoms of disease as we do? How do we keep our water systems safe? The implications of our behavior on the lives of others will be analyzed. You will visit sites on the Lower Eastern Shore to learn more about our Chesapeake Bay.
2011 APPLICATION FORM
Please print using ink or type.
Which session are you applying for? ❏High school ❏Middle school
Name ______
LAST FIRST MI
Address ______
City ______State ______Zip ______
Phone (___ ) ______E-mail address______
Date of birth ______Gender ❏M ❏F U.S. citizen ❏Yes ❏No
Ethnic origin (Optional. Minority and handicapped students are encouraged to apply.)
❏Caucasian ❏African American ❏Asian American
❏Native American ❏Hispanic ❏Other
Name of school ______
City______State ______Entering grade ____
Type of school: ❏Public ❏Private ❏Home-school
How did you find out about MARS?
❏Friend ❏Teacher ❏Guidance counselor ❏Web site ❏Brochure
❏ Attended math camp before❏ Other (please describe) ______
Ifyou have attended MARS (or SMART or CMST) camp before, what class(es) have you taken?______
Please rank the courses in order of your preference, using 1 to represent your first choice, 2 for your second choice, and so on. Write “no” for any course you would not consider. (Keep in mind that at the time your application is considered, if the only courses available are ones you have marked “no,” you will not be admitted to MARS.)
High School Session: June 26–July 9 Middle School Session: July 17-30
Course Rank Course Rank
HS01 Advanced Problem Solving ❏ MS01 The Mathematical Mind ❏
HS02 Computers From the Inside Out ❏ MS02 Codes, Games, and Chance ❏
HS03 Chaos and Fractal Geometry ❏ MS03 Math and Art ❏
HS04 Web Site Design ❏ MS04 Mathematics and Architecture ❏
HS05 Classical Cryptanalysis ❏ MS05 Digital Logic and Robotics ❏
HS06 Operations Research in Real Life ❏ MS06 Bay Rangers: Env. Studies ❏
2011 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
Complete this section only if you are applying for financial assistance. Decisions regarding student selection are independent of requests for financial assistance/scholarships. Consideration for full scholarships will be given first to students from families who meet requirements for reduced school lunches as defined below. A partial scholarship may be considered for students with documented extenuated family circumstances/obligations.
1. What is your total family size including parents and children?
2. What is your total family income before deductions as reported in your most recent Federal
Income Tax filing?
3. Does the student meet requirements for reduced school lunch? ❏yes ❏no
4. Complete only if your income was reduced in the past year:
Present monthly income:
5. Provide any other information that might be helpful to determine financial need or to
explain extenuating circumstances below.
______
______
______
______
______
______
I verify that the above information is reported accurately.
______
SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN DATE
2011 STUDENT ESSAY FORM
Applicant’s Name: ______
LAST FIRST MI
Instructions:
1. Limit your essay to the space provided below.
2. Please make sure that your response is legible (preferably printed or typewritten). If
the program admissions officers are unable to read your essay, it may not be accepted.
3. Choose your words carefully and be thorough in answering the following questions.
What do you hope to gain by participating in the MARS Camp? What initiatives have you taken
on your own which show special interest in math, science, or technology? Describe any insights
and thoughts you have had, as well as any achievements, awards, or special experiences
related to your study of math, science, or technology. How do you plan to use these subjects
in your future endeavors?
2011 PROBLEM SOLVING FORM
Applicant’s Name: ______
LAST FIRST MI
Instructions:
Your response to the following three problems will give us an idea of your mathematical and scientific problem-solving abilities. The problems can be answered in several different ways, and at different levels of depth. Do not be discouraged if you cannot solve them completely; do as much as you can. We are not necessarily looking for advanced knowledge, but rather persistence, logical reasoning, insight, and inventiveness. Explain your approach and results completely and clearly, showing all work. You may use resources such as books and web sites, but you are not permitted to receive help from any other person.
Write your responses legibly on separate sheets of paper for each question. Do not use the same sheet for more than one problem. Include your name and problem number at the top of each sheet. Please make sure your response is legible. When you are finished, read and sign the statement below and attach your work to this form.
1. Arnold has taken 4 tests. On the 1st test he scored 83%, on the 2nd he got an 85%, and on the 3rd
he got 100%. The 4th test is counted double any of the other tests. What score did he get on the 4th test if his final overall average was 90%?
2. Adam can paint a room in 5 hours by himself. Audrey can do the same job in 6 hours. If they work together, how long will it take?
3. One number is 4 times as large as another. When the smaller is decreased by 2 it is 14 less than the larger number. What are the 2 numbers?
Answer each question on a separate piece of paper.
I affirm that the solutions I have submitted are my own. No person assisted me other than to give me advice where to seek more information.
Applicant’s signature: ______Date: ______
2011 TEACHER RECOMMENDATION FORM
Applicant’s name: ______
LAST FIRST MI
The above named student has applied to the MATH AND RELATED SCIENCES (MARS) Camp. All students entering grades 6-12 with enthusiasm and strong aptitude for mathematics, science, and/or technology are encouraged to apply. Please use the scale below to rate the student’s motivation and ability in these subjects compared to those of other students you have encountered in your professional experience. Please give thoughtful consideration to yourresponses as the admissions process at MARS weighs teacher recommendations heavily, and we want to ensure that students with appropriate attitudes and abilities are accepted into the program.
Please print in ink or type, and send this form directly to the MARS Camp byApril 16, 2011.
Teacher’s name: ______Course taught:______
How would you rate this student in the following areas? Place a check mark in the appropriate box.