AMC Preparation in Junior Grades

gThe MAA’s American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) furthers the nation in developing the mathematical skills of the next generation of problem-solvers. UNESCO declared that learning mathematics through problem resolution activities was the most efficient way for a person to develop lasting mathematical skills and one of the best ways to prepare students to meet the challenges of the future.  Math competitions help America’s educators identify potential in their students and foster a love of mathematics among them. Math skills taught in early childhood education lay the groundwork for kids’ success in elementary school and beyond. The development of mathematical skills begins in the early school years, and students in the junior grades become increasingly proficient in mathematics over time. This implies that math teachers can engage junior-grade students in advanced math activities and prepare them for American Mathematics Competitions early on.

American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) at a Glance

The MAA’s American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) are the first of the most prestigious series of competitions in secondary school mathematics. American Mathematics Competitions prepare the students for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)—a more advanced math competition of the series.

How Many Levels Does AMC Have?

AMC has three levels:

• The AMC 8 is suitable for 8^th graders under the age of 14.5.
• The AMC 10 is suitable for 10^th graders under the age of 17.5.
• The AMC 12 is suitable for 12^th graders under the age of 19.5.

How Does AMC Select Students?

The selection process has four stages:

1. Firstly, the AMC 10 or AMC 12 competitions invite students who perform well to participate in the American Invitational Mathematics Examination(AIME).

2. Then, the AIME invites students who perform well to participate in the United States of America Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO) or the United States of America Junior Mathematical Olympiad (USAJMO).

3. Finally, the Mathematical Olympiad Summer Program(MOSP) invites students who excel on the USAMO, with six of the twelve high-achievers being chosen through a competition known as the Team Selection Test (TST).

Calculators are not allowed on the AMC 8 and AMC 10/12. Furthermore, the AMC-10 and the AMC-12 are offered twice in a single year. For this reason, the MAA designates the first test date of the year “A” and the second, “B.”

Some Quick Facts about the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC)

Seven Tips for Students to Prepare for AMC

1. Practice math problems that involve reasoning and critical thinking.
2. Explore the connection between mathematical concepts and their everyday applications. Realize why certain mathematical concepts work and try to improve your problem-solving skills.
3. Study in groups and exchange ideas with peers to solve complex math problems.
4. Use a stopwatch to track your time while practicing your math problems. Try to allocate your time wisely.
5. Read the problem at least twice before you attempt to solve that.
6. Know the rules of the AMC assessments and don’t violate them. Don’t take calculators, smartwatches, or any digital devices to the examination center.
7. Seek professional help to achieve an outstanding result in the AMC exam. An after-school math program offered by MathProject can help students boost their motivation and mastery of math.

What is the Best Time to Start AMC Preparation?

The best time to start preparing for AMC assessments is when students are in their junior grades. Some students hire math tutors for this purpose, while others prepare for the AMC tests through books and other online resources. A specialized math enrichment program offered by MathProject can help students build mathematical reasoning skills and eventually prepare for the AMC assessments.

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Citations

American Mathematics Competitions — www.maa.org
What is developmentally appropriate in early childhood mathematics education? Lessons from New Research — www.researchgate.net  (publication: 242738332)
International Mathematical Olympiad Info Page — www.maa.org/math-competitions
International Mathematical Olympiad — www.imo-official.org
AMC 8 — www.maa.org/math-competitions/amc-8
AMC 10/12 — www.maa.org/math-competitions/amc-1012
American Invitational Mathematics Examination – AIME — www.maa.org/math-competitions/aime
United States of America Mathematical Olympiad – USAMO — www.maa.org/math-competitions/usamo
AMC Policies — www.maa.org/math-competitions/amc-policies