Northern State University's Mathematics Department started offering a mathematics contest in 1953.  The contest was developed to give area high school teachers an opportunity to compare the mathematical skills of their students with the skills of students from other schools.  In addition, the contest served to promote interest in mathematics.  Two members of the mathematics staff - Scout Mewaldt and Edwin Williamson - were responsible for originating the contest and its popularity has grown throughout the past 48 years.  The contest started in 1953 with approximately 40 students from eight area schools in attendance and, in 1997, there were 1410 contestants from 63 schools located throughout both North and South Dakota at the contest.

 

 

Tests that cover four specific areas of mathematics are written by Northern's mathematics faculty.

 

 

Divisions included in the contest are (1) elementary algebra, (2) geometry, (3) advanced algebra, and (4) senior division. Each test usually consists of 35-50 multiple choice questions and a tie breaker. The test usually takes about 50 minutes. To review previous tests, click on the year.  To be included on the contest mailing list or for additional information,  please call us at (605)626-2456 or email us.