If you have stumbled upon this blog, you would probably have heard of the Math Olympiad. But what exactly is it and how can you prepare your child for the Math Olympiad?
What is Math Olympiad
Math Olympiad is a competitive exam that tests students on their concept mastery and mathematical thinking skills. More than mastering concepts, students are often tested on how they can apply their knowledge in creative contexts under time pressure. The main aim of Math Olympiads is to instil a competitive spirit and confidence in solving out-of-the-box math questions.
Math Olympiads in Singapore
There are plenty of Math Olympiad opportunities in Singapore. Some require students to be registered through MOE local schools such as the RIPMWC, APMOPS and NMOS. On the other hand, others accept registration as a private candidate.
For Lower Primary students who are looking for entry-level competitions to build experience and confidence, consider registering for the SMKC and SASMO as a private candidate if your school is not participating.
Upper Primary Students with a strong foundation can also try their hand at the prestigious RIPMWC, APMOPS and NMOS. These competitions are highly selective and challenging. So earning a medal at these 3 competitions will boost your child’s chances of entering top schools through DSA.
So how can you best prepare your child for the Math Olympiad? Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the Math Olympiad systematically.
Essential Tips To Help Your Child Prepare For Math Olympiad
1. Understand the syllabus (and exam format!)
One key thing you will need to know is that there is no national curriculum for Math Olympiad in Singapore (unlike MOE school syllabus). As different math olympiads are more suitable for certain age groups, understanding what is tested in the particular Math Olympiad is key. This will help you to narrow down the topics your child will need to focus on and the concepts your child will need to master.
Topics Tested at Various Competitions
2. Prepare study resources
After analysing the topics you need to cover as well as the exam format, take some time to research, seek advice from forums/Facebook Groups, or even ask your friends for textbook recommendations. Additionally, one of the most important resources your child will need is the past year paper, which will give you insight into frequently tested topics and question types. Quality textbooks might be useful for students who are new to Math Olympiad with no previous exposure.
3. Develop a preparation plan
Depending on the complexity of the Math Olympiad, some students might start preparing for the exam a year in advance. Develop a concrete study plan and timetable to ensure that your child covers all bases in preparation for the competition. Above all, create a plan and set the number of hours to your child will commit to practicing. Set a realistic plan that is sustainable and in line with your child’s learning goals. This will mean weighing out your child’s priority and interest in the Math Olympiad as well as their goal.
4. Design test-taking strategy
Your test-taking strategy will depend largely on the exam format, and marking scheme as well as your child’s awareness of his/her weaknesses and strengths during timed practice and mock exams. This step is also one that requires coaching and experience in Math Olympiad and you can usually get advice and help from trained and experienced Math Olympiad coaches.
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Some key things to note when designing a test-taking strategy is to evaluate the marks awarded and if negative marking is involved in the particular Math Olympiad. Decide the amount of time allocated to each question and questions that will help to guide your child through as he/she answers the question. Remember to give yourself ample time to check your answers.
Some helpful questions include:
- What is the question asking?
- What topic/concept is being tested here?
- Have I seen a similar question before?
- What is the fastest possible method that I can use to get to the answer?
- Am I confident of the answer? (applicable for Math Olympiads with negative markings)
5. Timed practice and Mock Exams
To get a better sense of where your child needs more practice, timed practices and mock exams can serve as a good gauge for topics where they need further revision. Through these timed practices, continue to iterate your test-taking strategy and preparation plan.
Getting started on Math Olympiad Preparation with Think Academy
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