Math Olympiad Contest Problems, Volume 2 (REVISED)

No doubt after finishing Math Olympiad Contest Problems for Elementary and Middle Schools, Vol. 1 , you will be going straight for Math Olympiad Contest Problems: Volume 2. I've worked every problem contained in these two books, and I am entirely pleased with everything about them with several exceptions. I think the difficulty is more ramped up in the second volume due to the uniqueness of the problems compared to the first book. Of all sets, #11 is the toughest. I am surprised that these kids had to go through that sort of gauntlet which is a bit unfair if you compare its total number of problems with sub 10% completion rate with other sets. No matter what, anyone who works with these books will infinitely learn a lot about mathematics and have a good idea of how to solve a myriad assortment of problems using different multifaceted techniques. I have several complaints about certain problems. There are some problems that only a special technique that will destroy them in seconds. I think it's essential to teach them, but the authors didn't include them in the back of the book. For example, how many factors does the integer 100 have? It would be suffice to reason this: 100 = (5^2)(2^2) has (2+1)(2+1) = 9 factors. It's just simple and efficient. Similarly for palindrome numbers, the maximum number of points that this many lines can intersect in 2 points, etc., introduce the formula. Quite honestly, the knowledge of algebra can simplify the majority of the problems in the book. I must say it really helps to have the student to learn some algebra in early grades such as 5th or 6th grade. One recommendation I make to help more with word problem solving is to buy the book called How to Solve Word Problems in Algebra, (Proven Techniques from an Expert) . You'll thank yourself later when you work through the entirety of the book. On technique level, many problems in Math Olympiad Contest Problems: Volume 2 are very similar to what's in How to Solve Word Problems in Algebra, (Proven Techniques from an Expert) . The latter will give you a feel in depth for these sort of problems, and then when attempting the problems in the MOEMS, there is confidence in doing them. Anyway, problem 5D of Set 10: I couldn't solve it because it did not specifically say if I could repeat the numbers or not in the blank boxes. That missing additional detail is needed in there. Problem 3E of Set 12 is a poorly worded problem. Obviously, when you try to solve it, you, like I did, will probably be prevented by the gaps in the diagram. Only if the author can add more details in what one can do during the paths for a clarification. Finally, problem 5A of Set 15 talks about kittens and cats drinking this much of milk. I wish they would refrain from this myth. Cats and kittens are lactose intolerant. Substitute the word with water. All in all, Math Olympiad Contest Problems: Volume 2 is an outstanding book that I've particularly enjoyed working with, and I hope to see Volume 3 coming out one day. Check out my youtube videos of similar problems to the book by googling "Mr. Math Expert Math Olympiad Contest Problems for Elementary and Middle Schools" and "Mr. Math Expert Math League" for more practice.

This book (as well as the previous Olympiad book #1) is extraordinary. The problems are difficult, make kids think, need deep and careful interpretation and digesting, and nevertheless are bite-sized and do not require advanced math techniques. Most problems can be done in 4-7 minutes. Students can figure out what's going on with very dedicated thought and poking around at reasonable answers, and then a teacher/parent can show the relevant techniques/algebra if the students are ready for it. (And the book has lots of hints/answers/techniques in the back.) The greatest thing about the book is that students can see clearly how difficult it is, but because the problems are so manageable, they will work and try and finally get there. It's a real sense of accomplishment to just finish a few of these problems, whereas in class the students usually get dozens of absurdly simple problems they're meant to perform flawlessly; where's the accomplishment there? I have used these books extensively in 5th-7th grade math clubs and classrooms. (It's too hard for 90% of 5th graders, 80% of 6th graders, and 70% of 7th graders.) The kids gain essential skills in interpretation and meaning that they don't get when doing standard problems. For that purpose--if what you want is the most straightforward presentation of the middle school math basics--buy the Spectrum Math for grades 7 or 8. These are fabulous skill-building and practice books.

Only 5 problems at a time. Good for the brain. Love it

This was recommended by my daughter’s math teacher as she was getting a little bored in school. The problems are challenging and I love how they give you different ways to solve it in the back of the book. She loves the challenge and would regularly open the book to do it herself.

I purchased this book for my son who was a 4th grader to prepare for participating in Math Olympiad. The structure of the book is excellent. There are sections of hints and solutions. After my son tried hard to understand the math problems for a few times, I allowed him to know the hints. After he finished one set, I went through the five problems with him and reviewed the different strategies/solutions. The process definitely enlighten my son and helped him learn new skills.

well constructed questions. The best parts are the hint and strategy. Save parents lots of time to find answers that is understandable to kids. This is not just another book with just Q & A, the strategy part actually takes over more than half of the volume. Beautiful book for serious math kids to have some deep thinking and fun.

My son is in 4th grade and has just started to participate in Math Olympiad contest. I found this book to be quite handy that he can practice with it, and have discussions with me on his solutions (or non-solutions), then compare with the result from the book. We found it entertaining that there are often alternative strategies seen from the book or coming on our own that we can cross study. Highly recommended.

The math from school is not challenging at all and the kid gets bored. My kid loves this book! This book contains many interesting problems that cannot be solved easily but can be done after some thinking, which means this book has the appropriate level of difficulty for grade 4 students.