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Simple Tips for Better Maths Results!

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A-Maths: Application Question on Modulus Graph

Based on my observations on recent mid-year exams papers, prelims papers, it seems like many schools are setting highly application questions for many topics. In this post, I would like to share with you an example of how modulus graph can be tested by applying our basic concepts on equations of lines.

I have been reminding my students to keep their mind open to 'new - trend' questions which might require their fast thinking on the spot so we keep our mind flexible when we do our O-Level examinations.

I hope you learn useful concepts and thinking skills on this question. Do leave me a comment if you have any other questions.

modulus graph

2 Weeks away from 'O' level: Should I Be Doing Ten Year Series or School Prelims Papers?

I have been asked this question so much recently that I think it will benefit more students by writing a post here.

"Should I Be Doing Ten Year Series or School Prelims Papers? "

My personal recommendation is that

  • If you are generally good in a certain topic, then work on the school prelim papers (most schools pump students with piles and piles). By doing so, you are gaining exposure to more variety of questions.
  • However, if you are still weak in certain topics, please go to your Ten Year Series to build up your foundation and master the basics first.

You know as well as I do that most school prelim papers are pitched at a standard which is higher than 'O' levels and this is the main reason for me suggesting prelim papers for exposure not fundamentals building.

Note: As 4016 (E-Math) & 4038 (A-Math) are relatively new (only available last year 2008), some topics in the Ten Years Series are lacking on questions. These are the newly introduced topics:

A-Math

  1. Inverse Matrix
  2. Sum & Product of Roots
  3. Partial Fractions
  4. Curves & Circles
  5. Plane Geometry (also known as Geometrical Proof)
  6. Further Trigonometric Identities (Addition, Double Angle, Factor & R - Formula)
  7. Integration involving partial fractions, trigonometry involving double angle

E-Math

  1. Matrix word problems and basic operations
  2. Set language and notation
  3. Statistics involving dot diagrams, stem and leaf, box and whisker, calculation of mean and standard deviation
  4. Applications of mathematics in practical situations (hire purchase, compound interest, money exchange, profit/loss, taxation)

I would suggest you use school prelim questions as a form of practice for the above topics.

I would love to hear from you on how you are preparing for the upcoming 'O' level Mathematics papers. Leave your comments below.

Recommended :How To Prepare for GCE ‘O’ Level 2009 Mathematics Papers (3 Simple Actions To Take)

3 Things You Should Not Do Before Any Math Exams

Previously I have written a post on How to prepare for Maths common test. (It has been one of the most popular posts) Today, I am going to discuss the 3 Things You Should Not Do Before Any Math Exams:

Do not practice new Math questions

Practicing Math is something you should do consistently everyday but NOT before your Math exams. I do not encourage this as by you might get 'freak' out by questions that you could not do, did not get the correct answers. This will not do good for your confidence.

Do not think of doing last minute revision

The more you cramped, the worse it gets. Pre exam period is about taking everything as per normal day. You eat your breakfast as per normal. Do not burn midnight oil instead have an early rest. This will ensure that you have a clear logical mind to handle the questions the next day. Freshness is one of the important factors to do well in exams.

Do not prepare your cheat sheet the day before your exam

Revision for Math exams is unique from other subjects in the sense that all you need for a fast revision would be just a sheet of A4 Paper with all the required formula and important points on just ONE sheet of A4 paper, YOUR CHEAT SHEET. Now this cheat sheet should be prepared many days in advance, even while you are consistently revising and working on your Math. It should be a 'stale' copy which you have been referring to for all your tests and exams.

I would love to hear from you what are the things you do or do not do on the eve of your Math Exams. Leave me a comment or question.