Editorial.

Callingham, Rosemary

I recently attended a talk by Merrilyn Goos, a mathematics educator at the University of Queensland, and the university Teacher of the Year in the social sciences. In discussing what makes for quality teaching, Merrilyn emphasised the importance of enthusiasm. Quality teachers not only have a passion for their subject, but also eagerness to share this with their students. It is worth noting that this idea is embedded in the AAMT Standards for Excellence in Teaching Mathematics in Australian Schools.

Too often we forget that teachers who demonstrate excitement about mathematics and a belief that all students can be equally involved with the subject are the teachers that are remembered long after school days are finished.

This issue demonstrates the range of interesting aspects of mathematics in which we can engage our students. Games, new and interesting applications of technology, or poetry--truly there is something for everyone in maths. Let's not forget that, as teachers, our first duty is to engage our students so as to introduce them to the subject that we all find so interesting in so many different ways. Maintain the passion!