The AMC 8 is a 25-question, 40-minute, multiple choice examination in middle school mathematics designed to promote the development of problem-solving skills. The AMC 8 provides an opportunity for middle school students to develop positive attitudes towards analytical thinking and mathematics that can assist in future careers. Students apply classroom skills to unique problem-solving challenges in a low-stress and friendly environment.
The material covered on the AMC 8 includes topics from a typical middle school mathematics curriculum. Possible topics include but are not limited to: counting and probability, estimation, proportional reasoning, elementary geometry including the Pythagorean Theorem, spatial visualization, everyday applications, and reading and interpreting graphs and tables. In addition some of the later questions may involve linear or quadratic functions and equations, coordinate geometry, and other topics traditionally covered in a beginning algebra course.
FAQs
Q. Can my child write this contest with Spirit of Math if they are not a current Spirit of Math student?
A. No, only Spirit of Math students are eligible to write at our location.
Q. My child’s day school also offers this contest, who should I register with?
A. You must register with your school.
Q. I don’t yet know whether my child’s day school offers this contest or not. Can I register now and ask for a refund later if his/her day school does offer?
A. Unfortunately, the registration fee is non-refundable. However, your child may only write the contest ONCE.
Q. Can I sign my child up for contests that are above their current grade school grade level?
A. Yes. However, you cannot sign up for lower grade contests.
Q. Are calculators permitted?
A. Prohibited materials include: calculators, smartwatches, phones, computing devices, compasses, protractors, and graph paper.
Q. Where can I get more information about this contest?
A. https://www.maa.org/math-competitions/amc-8
Q. How should my child prepare for this contest?
A. You are encouraged to visit: https://www.maa.org/sites/default/files/2016_AMC8_PracticeProblems.pdf for the practice problems.
If you have any problem with the sample questions, you should ask your teachers for advice.
Q. Who can I contact if I have any questions?
Please contact the Campus Principal at your campus if you have questions.
