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Must-Read｜What Will Kangaroo Term 1 P5 Students Learn? After the very first lesson, I noticed that the Tr. Gao Xuming and Tr. Tan Yu Xian received plenty of positive feedback from parents and students in the teaching group. So, where do all these compliments come from? Let’s take a closer look inside Tr. Gao Xuming and Tr. Tan Yu Xian’s classrooms and find out what P5 students will be learning in Term 1!
A Peek Into the First Lesson: What’s the Course Design? In the first lesson, the P5 teachers introduced the curriculum for the year, emphasizing that Primary 5 is the most challenging year in primary school Math Olympiad preparation. This is the year when students will complete all the core concepts of the seven major modules to lay the foundation for systematic review and breakthroughs in Primary 6. The Term 1 syllabus and topics are organized as follows: (1) Calculation and Word Problems: Building Foundations, Overcoming Challenges Students will dive deep into ratios, proportions, and related word problems. These are high-frequency topics in major Math Olympiad competitions and include classic and advanced problems such as work-rate problems and motion problems solved using proportional reasoning. Additionally, students will explore advanced techniques in fractions and decimals, such as fractional shortcuts and recurring decimals. This module is designed to equip students with the core strategies needed to tackle complex word problems. (2) Geometry and Counting: Foundations of Key Knowledge In geometry, the focus will be on mastering five major models, starting with the foundational Equal Height Model and gradually extending to the Bird’s Head Model and three-dimensional geometry studies. In counting, students will learn combinatorics and apply these skills to solve geometric counting problems, which are often featured as challenging questions in competitions. With systematic training, students will gain a competitive edge in this area. (3) Number Theory and Miscellaneous Topics: Developing Olympiad Thinking The number theory module will start with the application of factors and multiples and progress to more advanced topics like modular arithmetic. Students will learn strategies to transform unknown problems into solvable ones, building a logical framework for tackling complex number theory questions. In the miscellaneous topics module, students will focus on common Math Olympiad strategies such as number-shape integration and grouping. They will also solve optimization problems using techniques like extreme value analysis. Through these methods, students will develop the ability to think critically and approach a variety of challenging problems with confidence. Through a structured and progressive approach, students in P5 will solidify their Olympiad math foundation and enhance their problem-solving skills and competition readiness. Classroom Highlights During the first lesson, the teachers guided students through 6–8 questions covering all key concepts related to the calculation module found in competitions like NMOS. These concepts included the distributive property, factoring, grouping, chain simplification, compound fractions, pairing, substitution, and more. Rather than simply teaching formulas or methods, the focus was on helping students understand the reasoning and logic behind each problem, summarize the key points, and recognize different problem variations. With so much content to learn, how can students successfully navigate their Term 1 learning journey? Kangaroo’s Three Teaching Principles 1. Guiding, Not Pushing Mr. Wenlong emphasized that they never give answers directly. Instead, they guide students to think independently, step-by-step, until they discover the solution and understand the logic behind the problem. 2. No Understanding, No Leaving Students are not allowed to leave the classroom without fully understanding the concepts or problems. Teachers are committed to explaining until the students grasp the material completely. 3. Sense of Achievement Students are encouraged to ask questions freely without fear of being blamed. The teachers aim to build their confidence and interest in math through encouragement and problem-solving. Additionally, post-class consolidation is vital. Every lesson includes pre-class and post-class tests. Pre-class tests review concepts from the previous lesson, while post-class tests assess understanding of the current lesson (and students cannot leave until they get all answers correct!). Teachers also assign targeted exercises to help students master concepts and develop effective study habits. Teachers also assign tailored practice (such as homework and redoing mistakes) to help students master the material and develop good study and review habits. After the First Lesson With new knowledge and confidence, students left the classroom happy and fulfilled. Seizing a rare moment of free time for Tr. Gao and Tr. Tan, I asked what students should achieve by the end of Term 1. Tr. Gao explained that the goal is to help students complete the Math Olympiad knowledge points and build a robust framework for systematic problem-solving. By encouraging exploration and independent thinking, students will develop a comprehensive learning method and research mindset.Additionally, students will prepare for NMOS awards, including Gold, Top 30, and even spots on the IMSO national team.
Conclusion—Looking Forward to a Great Semester! The first lesson for new P5 students was a great success. From initial nerves to gradually adapting and even enjoying the process of solving problems, how has your child benefited? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments! For those still interested in enrolling, here’s the class schedule: • Start Date: January 11, 2025 (once a week) • Class Mode: In-person • Location: #02-12, Grantral Mall, 601 MacPherson Road, 368242 • Class Size: Limited to 16 students • Course Fees: $120 per lesson, $1920 for Term 1 (16 lessons). No registration fee, no deposit, no material fee, and full refund policy. Contact Tr. Gao Xuming to secure your spot today!
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