Mathematics Pentathlon
What is Mathematics Pentathlon?
The Math Pentathlon Club is a program supported by a national organization that primarily utilizes interactive games and other fun activities to teach problem solving concepts and at the same time help children to develop critical thinking. Spatial, computational and logical reasoning are integrated into many of the games.
The Math Pentathlon Club at Baldwin is about having fun and building teamwork. We play games, have
friendly competition, and learn without even knowing we are doing so! Children will also develop social
skills such as respect, good sportsmanship and self confidence. Each year in the spring, there is an
opportunity to participate in the Math Pentathlon tournament. In 2011, in it's first year of
competition, the Baldwin Math Pentathlon team placed first in the state of Texas.
Meetings for the Math Pentathlon Club are held after school on Tuesday, with the exception of first grade which meets Friday's after school. Our coaches are a combination of teachers and parents supported each week by a number of adult volunteers. Participation is limited to 24 children at each grade level.
The club maintains a library of all the board games utilized weekly. Parents can check out these games to practice at home with their children, neighbors or other family members. This gives the children an opportunity to practice the games, prepare for tournament and show what they've learned.
Registration Information
Each year in May, spring Pentathletes and their siblings are given priority registration for the following school year. Kindergarten registration information is distributed during Kindergarten Round-up. After the priority registration, any open spots are offered to those on the wait list. Any remaining spots are then offered in an open registration announced in the Baldwin Roar. Spots are evenly divided between boys and girls. Therefore, it is possible that there is a wait list for a grade, but open spots are available depending on a child's gender. One of the factors considered during registration, is an adult's ability to volunteer. Each grade needs enough weekly volunteers to support a consistent learning environment. Total participation numbers at each grade are determined by the number of volunteers available.
This year the registration fee is $30 ($45 for kinder). This fee will be used to pay for snacks, training, supplies and additional games. The spring registration fee is typically about $45 to cover the cost of tournament and club T shirts.
If you are interested in learning more about the national Math Pentathlon organization, please visit their website.
For any questions regarding the Baldwin Math Pentathlon Club, please contact Linda Alvarez.
