Bringing mATHEmATics To LiFE

8th Grader Matthew riedMan takes 12th Grade CaLCuLus to new LeVeLs

Last academic year, rising 8th grader Matthew Riedman was taking 12th grade calculus. To help bring his mathematics studies to life, Matthew and his teacher, Mr. Freuman, worked together on a unique project in which Matthew created his own 3D shapes using mathematic formulae and coding. Matthew very graciously spent some time this summer telling the Bullhorn about the project and what he gained from the experience.

Bh: tell us how you started working on this project.

MR: In my calculus class, Mr. Freuman suggested I make actual 3D models to represent the graphs rotated about axes whose volume we would then calculate. Then, we started to work together to figure out a way we could create these solids.

Bh: What were some of the challenges you faced?

MR: At first, we had no idea how to start the project because neither of us knew of software that could save 3D graphs into a file. Then, we had to figure out how to print four to eight parts of a shape at once in order to save time.

Bh: how long did it take you from start to finish?

MR: We started to think about how to create the project in early April. By the end of the month, we had printed the first model. Over the next month and a half, we created four more pieces.

Bh: What was your favorite part of the project?

MR: My favorite part of the project was when the first model was finally completed. It was great to see the first solid part of the project after so much work.

Bh: how do you think this project helped with your wider understanding of the calculus course?

MR: I was able to see and rotate an actual model of what we were doing instead of just looking at diagrams on a screen.

Bh: do you have any goals you are hoping to achieve this coming academic year?

MR: This year, I will try to continue to do well in school. In math, I am excited to take another year of calculus and to participate in competitions such as the AMC 10 and 12.

Congratulations to Matthew for participating in such an innovative project. We certainly look forward to seeing how it progresses during the upcoming school year and wish Matthew all the best in the AMC 10 and 12 competitions.