Important announcements

Andrey Antonenko
; Extra, 6-10; Math, 4-5, 5-6, 8-10


I am a Ph.D. student in Stony Brook University enrolled in two programs: Applied Mathematics and Linguistics.

In Applied Mathematics my current research focuses on the statistical characteristics of porous media and algorithms for generating the random samples of sandstones.

In Linguistics, I work on the syntax of Slavic languages (in particular, Russian). Thus, my wide background allows me to teach both Russian Language and Mathematics in SchoolPlus.

I was teaching mathematics to school students from 7th grade up to 11th grade of school. In Moscow I used to teach in the evening school for 7th and 8th grade students who wanted to get deeper insights in mathematics and methods of problem solving. Non-standard problems helped kids to improve their skills, to learn a mathematical way of thinking, and to use logic. I was also teaching the advanced math courses for high school students introducing the basic notions of calculus and algebra through challenging problems.

In Stony Brook University I was a TA and a Course Instructor for many courses in Applied Mathematics Department, including probability theory and various levels of linear algebra. In 2003 I received the AMS Department ‘Excellence in Teaching’ award.

My philosophy of teaching mathematics is based on the idea that the formal concepts should be presented in a form interesting for students. I will be guiding students to their own small discoveries in the world of mathematics by providing them interesting problems and hints.

My love for languages made me join the Linguistics department in Stony Brook. I truly believe that language is one of the most beautiful facilities available to mankind. It is hard to describe formally, and grammar might look very confusing to students. Therefore, I was trying to make my classes as interesting as possible, by playing language related games, discussing topics which are interesting to students: where do they want to travel, which movies have they seen recently, etc. During all those leisure activities, I was able to teach them the basic facts of Russian grammar and orthography. The students appreciated the fact that I was not behaving as a formal teacher, but more as a person who is interested in their lives and hobbies. That made our classes very interactive and encouraged students to learn better and faster.

I believe that my broad experience in teaching will make my classes enjoyable and interesting for all students.