Excellent Results in National Mathematics Competition
A record 79 students in Years 7-9 have participated in this year’s Computational and Algorithmic Thinking (CAT) Competition with more than 50% of receiving a credit or higher result. This is a significant increase on the previous year when 18 students took part in the competition which was introduced in 2015.
Congratulations to the following students:
High Distinction
Amanda Lu (Year 8) and Claire Shi (Year 9)
Distinction
Year 7: Yian Li, Hannah Ly, Horatia Ma
Year 8: Iris Gou, Helena Law, Noelle Davis, Giselle Wong, Linda Liu
Year 9: Angeni Bai, Ziyi Que, Christina Shi, Tay Leung, Sophie Heasman, Sarah Waugh, Tracey Chiu, Grace Zhu
The CAT Competition is run by the Australian Mathematics Trust, which is a national body that fosters excellence in Mathematics among school students. Its best-known product is the Australian Mathematics Competition, a significant challenge which all PLC Sydney students face at least twice in their high school years. It addresses problem-solving skill in many areas of pure mathematics.
The CAT Competition, by contrast, has a focus on algorithmic thinking; that is, designing a step-by-step approach to solve problems of increasing complexity. This skill relates to computation and can help to identify students who may develop a skill and interest in computer science. As such, the competition helps to foster further interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, which governments and experts identify as a priority for Australia’s future.
The competition provides a unique experience for all students. They encounter many problems that require skills beyond the curriculum and is part of the enrichment program in Mathematics.