Math Olympiad Experience Class Recap: Counting Figures with Tr. Smith

On Sunday, August 24, Tr. Smith conducted a Math Olympiad Experience Class for K2 and P1 students at Kangaroo Study. After last week's Math Olympiad seminar for K2 and P1 students, parents gained a clearer understanding of what the Math Olympiad is about, including how challenging and interesting it is. But how can they tell if their child is suitable for it? The Math Olympiad Experience Classes were hence designed specially for K2 and P1 students who are interested in trying out what the Math Olympiad is really like. Today's class was the first of 2 short-term classes, focusing on "Counting Figures". Lesson Walkthrough Before the lesson started, Tr. Smith conducted a parents' meeting with a brief introduction to the 2 short-term Math Olympiad Experience classes, outlining the overall objectives and highlighting the importance of maintaining good class discipline. The main lesson then began, structured with two short breaks to keep students energised and focused. Many students were actively engaged throughout the class, with Tr. Smith encouraging participation. 6 representative questions were explained for this week's topic of "Counting Figures". After the lesson, students completed an after-class test, which served as both a review and a way to gauge their grasp of the questions covered. This was the first class of the Math Olympiad Experience programme, with the next session taking place next Sunday.The class will follow the following process:

• Before class test for 20 minutes
• Lesson explanation for 2 hours
• After class test for 20 minutes

To ensure that students continue to remember and strengthen the knowledge points learned today, we have also prepared daily practice exercises, which are now available on the Kangaroo App. Scan the QR code below to download the Kangaroo Study App: Tr. Smith is the Head of the Primary 1 Department and the lead teacher for the P1–P3 Math Olympiad program. Recognized for excellence in teaching, he was awarded the "Best Young Teacher"in Singapore by Fang Tian Education in 2024. His students have consistently achieved remarkable results. In 2024, during the P5 NMOS, out of eight students, two ranked within the Top 30, and five achieved Gold awards. In 2025, his P6 students excelled in multiple competitions: out of ten students in the RMO, two obtained High Distinctions and four achieved Distinctions. In the SASMO competition, five students earned Gold awards, with one student ranking among the Top 3 in Singapore. After this Math Olympiad Experience class, parents shared positive feedback on Tr. Smith's teaching, noting his clear explanations and engaging approach. They also mentioned that their children enjoyed the lesson. Many felt the session gave them valuable insight and they are now looking forward to the next class! Lesson Topic Main Content Module 1 Number Partitioning Study the partitioning of natural numbers. Through this lesson, students will learn methods for systematic and comprehensive thinking. Counting 2 Geometric Counting Apply clever calculation methods to count 3D shapes and master techniques for counting patterned figures. Counting 3 Simple Permutations Introduce basic permutation and combination concepts, fostering structured and logical thinking. Counting 4 Basics of Parity Analysis Learn about odd and even numbers and their properties in addition/subtraction, applying them to simple real-life problems. Comprehensive 5 Logical Reasoning Develop reasoning skills through real-life scenarios, using methods like sequencing and tables for problem-solving. Comprehensive 6 Diagramming Word Problems Analyze common word problems, including comparison and reverse-solving, using simple diagrams. Word Problems 7 Clever Addition & Subtraction Tricks Master two core techniques: "making tens" and "switching signs" for mixed operations. Calculatiom 8 Addition/ Subtraction Number Puzzles Solve vertical arithmetic puzzles by identifying key positions, strengthening number sense and logic. Calculatiom 9 Simple Number Arrays Explore number-filling puzzles to recognize patterns and develop problem-solving strategies. Comprehensive 10 Probability Basics Understand certainty vs. uncertainty in events, comparing probabilities with reasoning. Comprehensive 11 Time Calculation Read clock times precisely and calculate durations between events. Word Problems 12 Interval Problems Summarize three interval types and apply them to real-world scenarios (foundation for P2 "Tree Planting Problems"). Word Problems 13 Advanced Word Problems Decipher complex problems using structured analysis and arithmetic equations. Word Problems 14 Three-View Drawings Study front/side/top views of objects to enhance spatial visualization. Geometry 15 Cube Net Diagrams Learn cube unfoldings, identify opposite faces, and boost spatial reasoning. Geometry 16 Final Exam Comprehensive review of Lessons 1–15. Assessment