Bringing maths alive and learning programming in a fun and exciting way lies at the heart of what we do at LondonSMP. This camp is for children interested in maths and programming who want to cement their existing knowledge, discover real life applications for it and learn much more, all online in small groups with like minded pupils.
In Maths, we will explore the world of Functions and Sequences, with levels of complexity increasing with each age group. Functions are almost everywhere in maths: in algebra, calculus and geometry because they express the relationship between any two numbers. Number sequences offer the most natural way of spotting, presenting, and analyzing a pattern. From the simplest 1, 2, 3, 4, … , moving to 12, 24, 36, 48, …, followed by 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, … and 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13…, sequences describe our world. The Fibonacci Sequence is a well-known example of a sequence where the numbers grow larger at a constant rate. A thorough understanding of sequences and functions is essential to success in solving problems in algebra, calculus and geometry.
Here are more details of what will be studied by each Year group:
Years 3-6
Our pupils will be working with sequences, which will allow them to experience the all important elements of mathematical thinking: observation, generalization, prediction and proof. In our problem solving lessons, pupils will be offered challenging problems from the UK and international maths contests suitable for their age.
Years 7-8
Linear, quadratic and higher order polynomial functions, the modulus and the floor function and their compositions. Solving equations using graphs. Function machines - what if machines are combined together? How does the composition work? What is the power of a machine? Can one figure out the simple parts knowing how the composition works? How to solve equations where the unknowns are the machines. Several new scientific questions can be modeled this way. In our problem solving lessons, pupils will study compositions of functions, a class of finite machines and combinatorial problems related to machines leading to group theory.
Years 9-11
Linear, quadratic and higher order polynomial functions, the modulus and the floor function and their compositions. Solving equations using graphs. Function machines - what if machines are combined together? How does the composition work? What is the power of a machine? Can one figure out the simple parts knowing how the composition works? How to solve equations where the unknowns are the machines. Several new scientific questions can be modeled this way. In our problem solving lessons, pupils will study compositions of functions, a class of finite machines and combinatorial problems related to machines leading to group theory.
In mathematical problem solving, children will tackle different levels of UKMT challenges from the Primary Maths Challenge and International Kangaroo up to more senior levels looking at Combinatorics, Number Theory and Senior UKMT challenges.
In Programming, depending on your child’s age and experience in coding they may study coding as follows:
- Coding Club (Scratch), Years 3 to 5 most children in this age group will already be familiar with Scratch, however instead of teaching them the programming environment we go further and, using games as a learning tool, aim to teach them the major programming constructions and how to compose effective algorithms.
- Algorithmical Drawing (Java based), Years 5 to 7 the beauty of the Object Oriented way of thinking in programming begins with our Java classes. Pupils start with the basics and move on to development patterns, animations and applications.
- Processing Programming (Java based), Years 6 to 10 pupils learn to program using a Java-based language, building dynamic, visual and interactive applications.
- Python Programming, Years 6 to 13 as well as being an ‘industrial strength’ programming language, popular in web development, data analysis and machine learning, Python is also an ideal teaching tool. Pupils learn algorithm construction, syntax, the theory and practice of coding as well as Python itself.
Format and fees for the senior online camp:
- class sizes are six pupils or fewer of similar age and ability
- each day runs for six hours with four one hour classes and strategic breaks from the screen between them
- class times are: 10.00-11.00, 11.30-12.30, 13.30-14.30, 15.00-16.00
- all classes are interactive, using Zoom, with pupils solving problems with the teacher and with each other
- pupils must have a PC or laptop (Windows or Mac OS) with a camera and mic and a stable internet connection.
- fees are £500 for five days. Bookings of fewer days are not possible for this camp
Places are limited, please register your interest HERE.