The ÖSB offers an extra-curricular activity for preparing for the Mathematical Olympiad and other competitions: The course is aimed at interested and talented pupils who enjoy tackling challenging mathematical problems.
Topics that go beyond the regular school curriculum are covered in two lessons per week. In particular, logical thinking, mathematical reasoning, problem-solving and calculation skills are trained – skills that are also very useful in many fields of study.
The main topics of the Mathematical Olympiad include equations and inequalities, geometry, number theory (various properties of numbers), counting methods (combinatorics) as well as sequences and series.
There are usually no standard solutions for the tasks that are worked on. Instead, the aim is to discover new solutions using creativity, perseverance and systematic thinking. This can be challenging – but also very appealing and motivating if you succeed.
Dedicated participants have the opportunity to qualify for the regional competitions of the Austrian Mathematical Olympiad: For beginners, the junior competition takes place in Vienna, while advanced students take part in the competition in Raach im Hochgebirge in subsequent years.
The school also takes part in the international German-language Bolyai team competition in January. Another annual fixture is the Leibnitz-Budapest Math Challenge, which is held alternately in Leibnitz in southern Styria or in Budapest at the end of April or beginning of May.
In preparation for participation in the Austrian Mathematical Olympiad, the ÖSB offers a non-binding exercise of two lessons per week. The Austrian Mathematics Olympiad is an excellent opportunity for mathematically interested and talented students to develop their skills beyond the regular classroom. The practice units not only promote an understanding of mathematics, but also important skills such as problem solving and logical thinking, which are an advantage in many later degree courses.
The Olympiad tasks cover various math concepts, including sequences and series, geometry, equations and number theory.
Management: Susanne Kiesling