Mathematics spans a multitude of theoretical and practical subjects, from number theory and abstract algebra to finance and engineering. Dig deep and become an expert at whatever interests you most!
Some say that mathematics shouts questions but whispers answers. More is unknown than known, because every concept can be extended beyond what's on the printed page. Inquiring minds formulate questions and conjectures based on existing knowledge, and it could take years — or even centuries — to find solutions and proofs.
This class will introduce you to the innovative world of mathematics research through:
- Problem Solving: The ability to systematically tackle challenging problems will benefit you in college math, science, economics, and other quantitative courses.
- Independent, Self-Motivated Study: Time management is a key skill for college students and working professionals in any field, but particularly for those who also juggle research and/or teaching responsibilities.
- Technical Writing and Oral Presentations: The structure and nuances of technical writing are rarely covered in high school, so gaining this in-depth knowledge puts you far ahead of the curve. Professional public speaking experience is equally valuable.
First, you'll explore high-level mathematics by reading relevant journal articles, testing their claims, formulating questions based on the readings, and researching answers to those questions. Guest lecturers will come in to broaden the scope of the program and highlight researched-based tech.
As the class progresses, you'll get to “play” and “tinker” with a topic of your choice and develop it into a real research paper! Finally, you will present your paper at the Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair.
How to Register
Eligible students will receive an invitation with instructions via email in early March. Registration opens at 11:59 pm on March 14.
Eligibility
Rising 10th and 11th graders who successfully completed the ICPS program are eligible to register for this course. An agreement to attend all class sessions is required.
Cost
There is a $650 fee to cover the cost of a textbook and registration for the Math Fair, where participants will present their final papers.
Areas of Study
Here's what we'll focus on before you dive into your individual research paper:
- Routine versus non-routine problems
- Defying your intuition
- The art of technical writing, annotating, equation editing and naïve proofreading
- Finding patterns and making conjectures
- Determining a suitable and exciting research topic
- Learning to read mathematics journals
- Components of a research paper
- Preparing and critiquing oral presentations
- Learning to use Excel to perform mathematical calculations and analysis
- Using Geometer’s Sketchpad and Geogebra to develop assumptions
- Calculator and computer programming
Schedule and Location
This course takes place on Saturdays at Stony Brook University. Participants must commit to attending every class with confirmation from a parent.
- Classes begin: September, 2026
- When? Saturdays from 9 – 11:30 am
- Classes end: March, 2027
No classes will be held over Thanksgiving, winter break, or any three-day weekend
vacations.
Directions and Parking
See our Info and Resources page for directions to campus. Parking in the Administration Garage is free on Saturdays.
Instructor
Robert Gerver, PhD
Robert Gerver is a decorated mathematician with more than 50 years of experience teaching high school students. He has authored dozens of books on mathematical research and writing, spoken at hundreds of mathematics conferences from Maine to Hawaii, and earned numerous accolades including a Tandy Technology Prize, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching, two Coca-Cola Educator of Distinction Awards, and more.
In 2016, he was inducted into the Long Island Math Educators Hall of Fame, and the following year, he received the same designation at a statewide level. In addition to his role as an ICPS instructor, he regularly gives professional development seminars all over the country. In his personal life, Gerver is an avid Mets and Beatles fan, a collector of classic Chevrolets, and the drummer of the USA's longest running Sixties tribute band, Just Sixties, which he founded in 1982.
