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Anyone have tips on how students can do well in Mu Alpha Theta?

My son is competing in Algebra II, but is having a rough time because he says that he has not yet covered in class much of the material on the Mu tests.

How do other students handle this? Are there certain prep books they use or do they just study ahead in their texts?

My son is naturally good at math-- was state recognized in the 7th grade talent search -- and he also likes math. However, he said that in his first competition, he got only 23 points out of more than 125 possible points. The study sessions that his club holds each week don't seem to offer much in terms of prep or tips. Most of the time, the kids just individually take old tests.

By walter on Thursday, January 09, 2003 - 01:46 am: Edit

the best practice is to take old tests so that he has an idea of what to expect. i compete in the calculus division and had to cover three years of calculus in one year before i actually got anywhere - 8th in states. what i recomend is that he study on his own. i know it sounds kind of nerdy, but it is only way that i know that i know works for sure. what i would do is everytime i covered new material i would take an old practice tests and see how i did. you can get tests from the internet, they are all over the place. oh, and one more thing, the competition is really, really good, so aim high but expect low.

By Math on Thursday, January 09, 2003 - 07:47 pm: Edit

How old is your son? I was recognized for Mathematical Ability as well. I'm also currently a member of Mu Alpha Theta. Is your son taking the America Mathematics Competition? If so, there is a web-site where you can find a few past AMC problems. Also, if your son is interested in math problems, order a Math League High School Volume Problem Book. I wish your son the best of luck in the field of Mathematics.

http://www.unl.edu/amc/
http://www.mathleague.com/