AMC 8 / AMC 10 Prep

AMC 8 / AMC 10 Prep

American Mathematics Competition (AMC) is the first of a series of the most prestigious math competition.  The AMC 8 / AMC 10 Prep class specifically focuses on (1) improving AMC 8 scores and (2) introducing AMC 10 to students who are proficient at AMC 8.

Difficulty Level – PLEAES READ!

AMC 8 and AMC 10 are moderately difficult math competitions that require solid understanding of basic math concepts and creative problem-solving skills.  As such, the AMC 8 / ACM 10 Prep class is NOT intended to be an introductory class.

Please read the following guidelines carefully and fully discuss with your student prior to enrolling.  Students who are disruptive or negatively expressing uninterest (possibly due to the difficulty level) will be dismissed to ensure a productive learning environment for other students in the class.

• Overall coverage will include Medium/Hard problems of AMC 8 (about #9-25) and Easy/Medium problems of AMC 10 (about #1-16)

• We will NOT dedicate class time to learn basic formulas or cover Easy problems of AMC 8.

• Hard problems of AMC 10 (#17-25) can be covered separately with students who seek more advanced guidance, if needed

• This class is RECOMMENDED for students with at least one or more of the following:

• Consistently (or likely to) score 10+ on AMC 8 tests

• Participated in or preparing for AMC 10 test

• Participated in other math competitions such as MATHCOUNTS

• Completed or currently taking Geometry (or higher) math class

• Have a strong passion for competitive math and a zeal to improve

• This class is NOT RECOMMENDED for the following students:

• Unfamiliar or inexperienced with competitive math in general

• Find most Easy problems (#1-8) of AMC 8 tests too difficult

• Not comfortable with basic formulas or algebraic manipulations

• Lack enthusiasm in math and challenges

• For parents and students who are unsure, I would suggest taking an AMC 8 practice test to gauge the difficulty level.  Please email me at [email protected] if you need advice on whether this class would be appropriate or helpful.  For students who are not ready, it can be more beneficial to first utilize books and/or online resources such as Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) instead.

Session Structure

• Each session will be 1.5 hours, comprising the following components:

• Lecture (20-30 minutes)

• Instructor-led presentation of lecture topics

• Sample problem solving with interactive class discussion

• Applicable tips and strategies

• Review and Practice (30-40 minutes)

• Review of previous lecture topics

• Practice with targeted problems

• Open Topic (20-30 minutes)

• Questions, additional problem solving, and consulting

• There will be homework assignments, which will be minimal but expected to be completed each time.

• Session Structure and lecture contents may vary based on the instructor’s observation of the class needs and progress.

Lecture Topics

Common Topics I – Algebra

• Special Factorization

• Special Functions

• Polynomials

• System of Equations

• Inequalities

• Sequence and Series

Common Topics II - Number Theory

• Primes

• Divisibility

• Factorials, Divisors, Multiples

• Base Conversion

• Modular Arithmetic

Common Topics III - Geometry

• Properties of Triangles

• Properties of Circles

• Quadrilaterals and Polygons

• Solid Geometry

• Analytic Geometry

Common Topics IV – Combinatorics

• Counting

• Permutation / Combination

• Casework

• Introductory Probability

• Geometric Probability

Tips and Strategies I – Problem Solving

• Proactive Thinking and Planning 

• Capitalizing on the Intentions of Problem 

• Problem Reduction

• Estimation and Educated Guessing

Tips and Strategies II – Test Taking

• Time Management

• Skipping Problems

• Reviewing Answers

• Mental Math and Rapid Calculation

• Stress and Emotion Management

Tips and Strategies III – Preparation

• Self-Examination and Goal Setting 

• Routine Development, Image Training, and Winning Mentality

• Efficient and Targeted Practice

• Collaborative Work

• Mental and Physical Endurance

• Be the Test Maker

Instructor Bio – Gil Lee

I have a strong passion for competitive math and love helping motivated mathletes reach higher levels!

Education

• Cornell University - Bachelor's & Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering 

Major Personal Middle School Math Competition Achievements

• California Mathematics League Championship: State 1st place (6th grade)

• MATHCOUNTS: Chapter 2nd place (7th grade)

• National Math and Science Competition: National 1st place (7th grade)

• MATHCOUNTS: State 1st place (8th grade)

• AMC 10/12: AIME qualifier (8th grade)

Math Tutoring / Coaching / Related Experiences

• MATHCOUNTS coaching

• AMC12 / AIME tutoring

• SAT Math class teaching

• DMV Math Tournament director

• RLC Math Club leader

• Math Competition Prep class instructor

Backup Instructor

• Suzie Lee (my wife) will be the backup instructor in case of my absence.  She is also a Cornell University graduate with an engineering degree and has competitive math background through high school in South Korea.