Blog #80 – PREPARING FOR A MAJOR MATHEMATICS TOURNAMENT
There are numerous things that need to be done to prepare for a major mathematics tournament. Making travel and housing arrangements, acquiring funds for any expenses, discussing which competitors that will be present, developing study materials, selecting practice tests and discussing what to expect at the site of the tournament are some of the major things that must be done to prepare for it.
Initially, I try to get information about the location of the site of the tournament. I estimate the time it will take to arrive at the site of the tournament. At least 45 minutes are added to the travel time to insure that we are present prior to the beginning of the first contest. Next, I determine the mode of transportation (car, van, or bus). Once I know the mode of transformation, I make sure that all paperwork is completed. I then make sure that parental consent forms are filled out and signed.
If housing is necessary, I begin making hotel reservations. In selecting a hotel, I consider proximity to the site of the tournament and safety. I also need to make sure that arrangements are made for proper supervision of the students. I inquire about eating establishments at the hotel or in the vicinity of the hotel.
During early preparations for the trip, I develop a request for expenses. I determine costs for hotel, rental of vehicle, meals, and gas. I make sure that the proper individual approves of the expenses. I provide the business department sufficient time to provide me with a check. Once the check is received, I make sure it is cashed. If students are to receive meal money in advance, I insure that I have the correct amount of cash to distribute to them.
Prior to the contest, I provide students with information about teams and individuals that will be present at the tournament. I share with them how our team or team members compare with those present to allow them to determine how much studying and practicing will be needed. I share past experiences attending similar meets and how we were able to be successful.
Study materials are then developed (Number Sense, Calculator Applications, Mathematics). A list of formulas that need to be memorized is provided. Sample problems are distributed. Question and answer sessions will make use of the sample problems.
Practice tests are then given to each student. In general, I try and provided the most current tests. Some tests are administered at practices that I organize. Others are provided so that students can take them on their own. Students are encouraged to ask questions on any of the tests that they take during the weeks leading up to the tournament.
As the tournament approaches, I discuss information related to the tournament, such as the schedule of events, room assignments for each contest, and students are also told about what to do immediately before each contest. Some may take warm up tests. Others may spend time studying. Many will do both. Students will be told what procedures will be followed during the minutes prior to each contest. They are informed about what to do after each contest is completed. Lastly, each student is encouraged to have fun and focused on doing their best.