Problems with Purpose

Problems with Purpose is a collection of mathematical problems designed for students in Grades 4 to 12. Each problem emphasizes the connection between mathematics and our responsibility to present and future generations. Over the past few years, the CEMC has engaged in conversations with Indigenous educators and educators working in Indigenous communities to explore how the CEMC could support the calls of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. A recurring theme was the importance of exploring mathematics with concrete connections to the world around us. Mathematics can transcend cultural boundaries and has the potential to unite societies.

Acknowledgement

The Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) is situated on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. As part of the University of Waterloo campus, the CEMC is located on the Haldimand Tract, the land to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation at the University of Waterloo takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is coordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations. At the CEMC, we partner with educators and work with students who are located across Turtle Island and around the world. We seek to work in the spirit of the University of Waterloo's Indigenous Strategic Plan and the Faculty of Math's Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Anti-racism, and Indigenization (EDI-R & I) Principles.