The "Mathe im Advent" school challenge
"Mathe im Advent" offers puzzles for two age groups: All students from grades 4 to 6 and 7 to 9 respectively can take part in the individual or class challenge. These age groups are critical, as positive and negative experiences have a particularly powerful impact on their emotional and trend-setting decision for or against mathematics. In the individual challenge, every kid plays against all other German speaking students in their respective age group. In the end, they can download a certificate stating their track record and success. The best participants can hope for winning one of the attractive prices like laptops, e-pianos, longboards, etc..
All students can also take part in a class challenge, which is awarding the best classes in German speaking countries. Teachers get involved, as they register their classes and invite the kids to play along. Best classes also receive prizes, which benefit all members of the group. This part particularly motivates all students to engage in the mathematical exercises and develop extra endurance.
Specially gifted puzzlers from grades 2 and 3 can take part in a separate "jump starter" category. Everybody else can join "Mathe im Advent" with a "just for fun"-account. Participation in the individual challenge is free for everybody. Registration for the class challenges comes with a registration fee of max. 2€ per student.
At the end of January, all winners are invited to a big award ceremony. This is a live event at a Berlin University with entertaining maths show. Every year, more than 1,000 kids comes to Berlin with their parents, teachers, and classmates. On this occasion, also the best schools and classes are honoured, and the patrons and sponsors are acclaimed for their support. This event is hosted together with Berlin Mathematical Research Center MATH+, who organizes a similar calendar for especially gifted students from graduation years (grades 10+).
