top of page

Preparing for CEMC Contests: A Step-by-Step Guide

Challenge and Engage
Challenge and Engage

The Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) offers a range of contests designed to challenge and engage students in mathematics and computing. Here’s how you can prepare effectively and make the most of available resources:


Step 1: Understand the Contest Format and Topics


  1. Identify the Contest: Check which CEMC contest you want to participate in (e.g., Pascal, Cayley, Fermat, Hypatia).

  2. Review the Topics: Visit the CEMC website for detailed syllabi and problem types specific to each contest.


Step 2: Access Free Preparation Resources


  1. Past Contest Papers: Download past contests and solutions to familiarize yourself with the question style and difficulty.

    • Navigate to the "Past Contests" section on the CEMC website.

    • Select the contest and year to download PDFs of questions and solutions.

  2. Problem of the Week: Engage with the CEMC Problem of the Week to practice diverse problem-solving techniques.


Step 3: Utilize CEMC’s Online Courseware


  1. Enroll in Free Online Courses: CEMC offers self-paced courses in mathematics and computer science.

    • Visit the "Online Courseware" page.

    • Browse and register for relevant topics such as algebra, calculus, or programming.

  2. Interactive Lessons: Use interactive modules to build conceptual understanding and apply knowledge to contest problems.


Step 4: Explore Recommended Books and Study Materials


  1. Suggested Reading: Access a list of recommended textbooks and resources curated by CEMC.

  2. Contest Books: Obtain problem-solving books specifically created for CEMC contests, available for purchase online or through your school.


Step 5: Join CEMC Webinars and Workshops


  1. Participate in Events: Register for webinars and workshops led by CEMC experts.

    • Watch for announcements on the CEMC website or subscribe to their newsletter.

  2. Interactive Practice Sessions: Gain insights and tips directly from contest creators and experienced educators.


Step 6: Regular Practice and Mock Contests


  1. Simulate Contest Conditions: Practice past papers under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy.

  2. Track Progress: Regularly evaluate your performance and identify areas for improvement.


Step 7: Register and Prepare for Contest Day


  1. Register Through Segue Global Prep School: Ensure your school registers you for the contest. If your school does not participate, contact CEMC for alternatives.

  2. Plan Ahead: Confirm contest dates, formats (individual/group), and requirements well in advance.


  1. General CEMC Resources https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources

    Access a variety of resources, including preparation materials for math and computing contests, enrichment activities, and problem-solving tools.


  2. Resources by Grade Level https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources/grade-level

    Explore curriculum-specific materials tailored for different grade levels to strengthen foundational concepts.


  3. Problem of the Week (POTW) https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources/potw

    Engage with weekly problem sets designed to develop mathematical thinking.


  4. Problem of the Month (POTM) https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources/potm

    Solve monthly challenges that explore advanced topics in math and computing.


  5. Courseware https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources/courseware

    Free interactive lessons and exercises covering various topics in mathematics and computer science.


  6. Problem Set Generator https://cemc.uwaterloo.ca/resources/problem-set-generator

    Create customized problem sets for practice, focusing on specific concepts or skills.


By following this guide, students can confidently prepare for CEMC contests and improve their problem-solving skills, which are valued by top universities worldwide.



 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page