Reported by Elissa Song
From July 7th to July 11th, AYLUS Lake Washington Branch hosted its week-long summer AMC 10 preparation camp. Teacher Joey and Assistants Kerry, Simon, and Elissa came together to host a virtual Zoom meeting teaching fundamental mathematical concepts to students in order to help them better prepare for future AMC competitions. The camp lasted five days, with each class being two hours long. In addition, Joey also contributed by correcting homework, helping with assignments, and engaging in Q&A support.
Our members collectively agree that the camp was not only educational but fun for both the students and teachers, serving as a critical learning experience and contributing to the development of our crucial 21st century skills.
Day 1: Algebra Deep Dive
Exploration of fundamental and advanced algebraic techniques:
- Equations & Inequalities: Solving linear and quadratic equations, compound inequalities, absolute value equations
- Functions: Introduction to function notation, domain and range, transformations and graphs
- Factoring Techniques: Difference of squares, trinomials, factoring by grouping
- Quadratics: Vertex form vs. standard form, completing the square, quadratic formula applications
- Word Problems: Translating real-world situations into algebraic models
Joey Zhu (3 hours), Elissa Song (2 hours), Kerry Xu (2 hours)
Day 2: Geometry Essentials
A hands-on approach to 2D and coordinate geometry:
- Triangle Concepts: Triangle inequality, classification, congruence and similarity
- Pythagorean Theorem: Applications, distance in coordinate geometry, special right triangles
- Quadrilaterals & Polygons: Properties of parallelograms, trapezoids, interior/exterior angle sums
- Circles: Central and inscribed angles, arc length, sector area, tangent and chord properties
- Coordinate Geometry: Distance, midpoint, slope, equations of lines, geometric loci
Joey Zhu (3 hours), Elissa Song (2 hours), Kerry Xu (2 hours)
Day 3: Number Theory
Unlocking the secrets of integers, divisibility, and modular arithmetic:
- Prime Factorization: Finding prime bases, GCF, LCM applications
- Bases & Place Value: Working with base conversions and understanding alternate numeral systems
- Remainders & Modular Patterns: Introduction to modulo operations, cyclic patterns, divisibility rules
- Diophantine Equations: Solving equations with integer solutions (intro level)
Joey Zhu (3 hours), Elissa Song (2 hours), Kerry Xu (2 hours)
Day 4: Consolidation & Mixed Review
Strengthening foundations through mixed-topic reinforcement:
- Order of Operations (PEMDAS): Careful handling of nested expressions, fractions, and radicals
- Linear Equations & Inequalities: Systems of equations, graphs, applications
- Basic Probability Concepts: Introduction to probability rules, outcomes, and expected value
- Review of Prior Topics: Blended exercises covering prime factorization, coordinate geometry, and shape properties
- Challenge Problems: Applying multiple topics to complex AMC-style problems
Joey Zhu (3 hours), Elissa Song (2 hours), Kerry Xu (2 hours)
Day 5: Probability & Counting Strategies
Strategic thinking and careful enumeration techniques:
- Permutations: Arrangements with and without repetition, circular permutations
- Combinations: Subsets, binomial coefficients, Pascal’s Triangle applications
- Dice & Coins: Calculating probabilities from compound and independent events
- Games & Matching Problems: Classic probability puzzles, logical reasoning with constraints
- Inclusion-Exclusion Principle: Counting overlaps among multiple sets
Joey Zhu (3 hours), Simon Song(2 hours), Elissa Song (2 hours), Kerry Xu (2 hours)