The Math Behind Pokémon
The Pokémon franchise is a colossal titan in entertainment today. Its signature video games, which permit players to capture and train wild creatures called “Pokémon” to battle against one another in a matter not unlike various sports. But behind this backdrop, the games rely on a variety of mathematical techniques behind the gameplay.
Monday - Discovery and Catch Rates
Tuesday - Shinies and EVs
Wednesday - Combat Damage
Thursday - AI and the Illusion of Choice
Friday - AI and the Illusion of Choice
Nuclear Astrophysics
Where were the elements made? Over the last 14 billion years, nuclear reactions such as fusion, fragmentation, and radioactive decay have created dramatic change. The fundamental nature of the atomic nucleus has driven the chemical evolution of the universe and the energy cycle in stars. This course, sponsored by MSU’s world-class Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), will pull back the curtain on nuclear research and careers!
Narrative by Design: Visual Storytelling, World-Building, and Character
When we think of stories, we usually think of the written word, but stories that use visual elements can incite more creativity and immersion. This class will look at visual storytelling as a way to develop skills in character development, plot, and world-building. Over the course of the class, we will read and create our own visual stories, using visual elements such as comic strips, storyboards, maps, and character webs/collages. Doing so will challenge students to represent a story using all available tools, which will teach them to conceptualize stories creatively beyond writing them, in turn creating a more robust story. By the end of the class, students will have a portfolio that holistically represents their stories. We will conclude the class with a showcase of work and celebration.
Monday - Reading and creating comics
Tuesday - Discussing and creating character visuals
Wednesday - Discussing and creating maps
Thursday - Discussing and creating storyboards
Friday - Putting it all together; revisions and showcase
Brain Training with Mazes, Riddles, and Other Math Mysteries
In this class, we'll dive into addictive 2-D puzzles, riddles, and quick math mysteries that will challenge your logic, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Students will explore clever logic and brain-teasing challenges that make learning fun. Students will strengthen pattern recognition, math skills, and logical reasoning by tackling word puzzles, mini escape-room scenarios, and other fun challenges.
Monday - 2-D area mazes using basic math and logical deduction.
Tuesday - Clever riddles and word puzzles that challenge lateral thinking.
Wednesday - Quick math mysteries that reinforce arithmetic and pattern recognition.
Thursday - Logic-based puzzles and mini “escape-room” challenges in teams.
Friday - Design and swap original puzzles with classmates to test creativity and strategy.