EML

EuroMathLab is the name of the international mathematics project which will take place during the week of 19-24 April. Some sixteen fourth formers from the Kaiser-Wilhelm- und RatsGymnasium in Hannover will travel to Leiden participate in a mathematical research project with sixteen fourth formers of the Stedelijk Gymnasium. The German students will be housed at the homes of their Dutch counterparts.

When we make our little tour around the fourth grade classrooms to inform our students of the possibility to participate in this project, the most frequently asked question is: “Does this mean we have to solve problems all day long during an entire week?” , the politely unpronounced after-thought being “ What a dreadful perspective”. Fortunately, conducting mathematical research is not comparable to solving problems all day long. One could compare it with mountaineering. One simple goal prevails: to get to the top. Once you get there, the view is fabulous and worth every effort. Doing mathematics at school is quite different. There, you look at photo albums of others who once made it to the top. This is a useful and necessary thing to do, which makes it possible to get acquainted with a multitude of magnificent views in a relatively short time. But the true amateurs want to climb the top themselves. The EML project allows our students to do just that.

In addition, there will be plenty of time to indulge in non-mathematical activities. We will not only let our German friends get acquainted with Leiden, but we will also pay a one-day visit to Amsterdam.

What should I do if I want to participate?
Write an application letter in English explaining why you think you should be selected for this project. Make sure to mention the name of you current and previous maths teacher and the grade for mathematics you obtained last year. Send your letter by e-mail to a.c.reinders@gymnasiumleiden.nl and to j.vaneeghen@gymnasiumleiden.nl on Monday 16 November at the latest.

Who should I turn to if I want to know more?
Lydia Reinders and Jacob van Eeghen