Math Mania goes cartooning in January

Math Mania creator Amy Ruzicka is taking another unusual twist in putting together your math problem for January. She wants you to think about math-but in terms of a comic cartoon.

Two months ago, she posed a problem of writing a 500-word story with a plot that revolved around mathematics.

Last month, she was back to the more standard math questions that required answers in number terms.

Now, this month, she wants you to think of about math in terms of a comic storyline. She wants you to express your contest entry in the form of a 5-panel comic cartoon, with a math theme.

But, you don't have to be a finished artist to enter.

Entries will be judged on creativity and originality. Artistic ability won't be a major consideration in the judging.

Ms. Ruzicka teaches math at St. Gabriel's School in south St. Louis County. She's very serious about her math teaching. But, she also likes to mix in fun with the serious stuff.

Humor might just grease your "math gears" and help you learn.

The entry process for the January Math Mania is the same as previous months.

There will be up to three $10 Borders gift certificates awarded to kids who create the best comic strip with a math theme.

How to enter:

Math Mania Contest
Young Saint Louis.com
813 Rotherham Dr.
Ballwin, Mo. 63011

(All entries must be postmarked by the
15th of the month to be eligible.)

-----------------------Clip here to make entry form-----------------------

Entry for January 2006, Math Mania Contest:

Name: __________________________________ Age: _____

Address: _________________________ School: ___________

City: _____________________ State: ______ Zip: __________

Contact phone: (_____) _____________________

 

January Math Mania Comic Challenge

Design a math comic with a maximum of 5 frames. The comic may be in black and white or in color. The punch-line should be based upon mathematical ideas.

Entries will be judged for creativity and originality. More specifically, judges will look for a clever (and accurate!) application of math concepts. Artistic ability is not a major component of this contest.

**IMPORTANT**
Please make sure any captions or dialogue balloons are written clearly and neatly. The winning entries will be scanned and uploaded onto the website, so neatness is of absolute importance!

Before you get started, you may want to search math comics on the internet. That may help get your creative juices flowing!

CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH'S MATH MANIA