A LEVEL MATHS STUDENTS EXPLORE PROBABILITY WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF YORK
15.11.2024HNC recently welcomed Professor Niall MacKay from the University of York for a degree level workshop focusing on probability calculus, with a focus on applying the theoretical mathematics learnt in the classroom to real life scenarios.
In A Level Mathematics, students explore the mathematical concepts which underpin our knowledge of the world around us, developing their creative, strategic and critical thinking skills in the process. In this university level workshop led by Professor MacKay, A Level Mathematics students were tasked with applying their knowledge of probability calculus in a unique way – to work out the odds of winning in a stacked dice game and discovering more about how the gambling sector uses complex mathematical calculations to ensure that the house always wins! During the session, students were split into groups of four, with each member undertaking different roles and modelling strategies – and working out which strategy would be most effective in calculating a ‘win’.
The session, which aimed to provide wider context to the lessons learnt in the classroom, also highlighted that high level mathematicians are in demand across a range of sectors. Chris Smith, Faculty Lead Enrich Maths and Science, comments: “In A Level Mathematics, students explore mathematics at a theoretical level, and in this engaging session, they were able to put their skills to the test, using their knowledge of probability to make complex calculations in the dice stacking game led by Professor MacKay. This was a fascinating exercise that showcased not only the complex mathematics that works behind the scenes in the gambling sector, it also highlighted how the sector uses this knowledge to ensure that the odds are very much stacked in the houses’ favour! Thank you to Professor MacKay for taking the time to inspire our students, many of whom are planning to pursue Mathematics, or a related subject, at university.”
In Year 11? If you’ve applied, or intend to apply, to study A Level Mathematics at HNC, join our upcoming Taster Lesson event on Tuesday 3 December. In this session, you will enjoy an immersive experience exploring the subject of A Level Mathematics, including the key difference between the subject at GCSE and A Level. Book your lesson taster space here.
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