Contest Math Level 4A (Summer Camp)
This camp caters to students with previous experience in math competitions but are new to Olympiad Math, particularly proof-based problem solving. Throughout the program, participants will delve into challenging AIME questions focusing on computational skills, alongside comprehensive instruction on writing proofs. The curriculum emphasizes a deeper exploration of advanced topics and techniques, facilitating the transition from AIME-level problems to those encountered in the USA(J)MO.
Homework: Throughout the camp sessions, the instructor will tackle various example questions. It’s crucial that students thoroughly review and actively engage with any unanswered questions from each session, every day of the camp.
Advanced Level 4A
Instructor: Osman Nal
Dates: July 22 – Aug 2 (M-F)
Time: 12:30 – 4PM CT
Fee: $1,249
All instructional materials from the camp, including recorded sessions, will remain accessible for an additional three months following the conclusion of the camp. Zoom and Canvas platforms will be utilized for delivery and access to these resources.
Topics:
Combinatorics:
- Events with states
- Counting with recursions
- Expected value and linearity of expectation
- Algorithms and processes
- Euler theorem
- Order modulo a prime
- Lifting the exponent (LTE) lemma
- Diophantine equations and Pell equations
FAQ
Will summer camp cover the same material as spring and fall semesters?
There could be some overlap in topic coverage. However, most of the questions addressed in the camp will differ from those in our spring/fall classes.
Mastering contest math concepts typically requires multiple reinforcement opportunities. Each subsequent encounter with the same topics not only deepens students’ understanding but also progressively enables them to apply these concepts independently. It is unrealistic to expect students to fully grasp a concept and proficiently apply it after being exposed to it only once or twice.
Will there be homework assigned daily?
During the camp sessions, the instructor will present various example questions. Initially, students will be given 2-3 minutes to attempt solving the question. Subsequently, the instructor will solve the question and discuss its implications. It’s typical for students not to fully solve the questions within the allotted time. Therefore, the homework is for students to review and actively tackle all questions they didn’t complete during each day’s camp session.
Remember: You cannot claim to know how to solve a question unless you independently work through it without assistance.
Note: $40 annual registration fee per student (2023 Fall – 2024 Summer)