If you’re interested in math and are looking for a new challenge, the developmental (“D”) squad of the Chicago Area All-Star Math Team is for you!

Based on a combination of tryout scores and coaches’ recommendations, we select 16-18 talented 9th and 10th graders to practice and compete with the Chicago Area All-Star Math Team at the national ARML competition in June. There are four practices, held at Glenbrook North High School on weekday evenings in the spring, and homework for each practice. But although the commitment is substantial, so is the payoff: former D-teamers report having learned more mathematics, and having had more fun, than they would have thought possible in such a short time.

If you’re interested, here’s what you have to do:

1. ATTEND TRYOUTS on Thursday, January 28, at Evanston Township High School, from 4pm to 10pm. Students who do not attend tryouts WILL NOT be considered for the team.

2. Have your coach send, or bring with you, the D-Team Nomination Form, filled out by your coach. Again, students who do not have coaches’ nominations will not be considered.

3. Practice. Most students report that the tryouts are quite difficult, but don’t despair–last year, a score of 13  out of 24 problems was sufficient to get on the A/B teams, and students on the D-team score slightly lower. Still, you should give it a try before you come: here’s one set you can practice on from 2004.

Good luck! If you have any questions, please contact me at pjkarafiol@cps.edu.

Paul J. Karafiol
D-Team Head Coach