Class Description Introduction Series

Combinatorics: Path Counting Adventures
Grades: 3 – 5

Goal: Counting Path Adventures helps students master classic contest problems by learning how to count paths efficiently—without formulas. Students build strong logic skills while solving fun grid challenges used in math competitions.

Prerequisite
This course is best suited for students in grades 3-5 who
– Are comfortable with addition and subtraction of whole numbers
– Can follow multi-step directions carefully
– Have experience solving word problems independently
– Are willing to draw diagrams and organize their work
– Enjoy challenging puzzles
– No prior experience with path counting or combinatorics is required.
– No formulas or advanced math knowledge needed

Class 1: Basics of Path Counting
Students will:
– Understand what a “path” problem is
– Count paths using lists and grids
– Discover the add-from-neighbors pattern
– Avoid common counting mistakes

Class 2: Advanced Paths / Contest Strategies
Students will:
– Solve blocked path problems
– Count paths with must-pass points
– Combine logic + counting
– Handle contest-level multi-step question

Note: Class non-refundable.

Geometry: Angle Chasing for Contest Math
Grades: 5 – 7

Goal: Students learn to deduce unknown angles logically—not by guessing or memorizing—using structure, relationships, and smart diagram use.

Prerequisite: This course is designed for 5th-7th grade students who:
– Have a solid understanding of basic angle concepts, including right, straight, and full turns
– Are familiar with triangles and other polygons and know that the interior angles of the polygons
– Can perform addition and subtraction with whole numbers and simple fractions
– Are comfortable following multi-step logical reasoning
– Are willing to carefully draw, label, and analyze geometric diagrams
– Prior experience with math competitions is helpful but not required.

Class 1: Foundations of Angle Chasing
– Identify and apply core angle relationships (vertical, linear pairs, and triangle angle sum)
– Use logical reasoning to determine unknown angles step by step
– Clearly justify each deduction using correct mathematical language
– Accurately label and organize diagrams to support reasoning
– Solve  contest-style angle problems with confidence

Class 2: Parallel Lines, Transversals  Multi-Step Problems
Students will:
– Use parallel line relationships
– Solve multi-step angle chains
– Recognize when to add lines strategically
– Tackle full contest-level questions

Note: Class non-refundable.