Test Benefits

I. Multiple Choice Tests

• Very common, easy to grade
• Tests basic facts
• Elimination and guessing is common
• Good practice for other tests, such as SAT

II. Ciphering

• Computational skills
• Quick thinking under pressure
• Mental mathematics

III. Problem Solving (Teams)

• Realistic team approach to problem solving
• Uses individual strengths
• Members learn from each other

IV. Problem Solving (Individual)

• More difficult problems
• Multiple step problems
• Practice strategies and techniques

Why Compete?

I. Mastery of Content

• Students must know their basic facts
• Students must be able to think quickly and correctly
• Students must know the finer points, details

II. Problem Solving Skills

• Develop many problem-solving strategies
• Learn many new tools and "tricks"
• Raise level of performance - get used to more difficult problems

III. Motivates and Rewards Students

• Students like to compete
• Students needed and deserved recognition in academic area
• Channel students' interests into area with "worthwhile" carry-over
• Trips to contests are fun, educational
• Meet students from other schools, states
• Win scholarships

IV. Other Benefits

• Meet colleagues from other schools
• Prevents isolation
• Recognition for you as a teacher
• Establish ties between students and teachers