- 21 Feb, 2025
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SEAMO Preparatory Guide
Exploring the Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO)
The Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO) is an esteemed platform for young mathematicians, designed to nurture and challenge their problem-solving abilities. With participants spanning across Southeast Asia and beyond, SEAMO has become a benchmark for excellence in mathematical reasoning and creativity. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes SEAMO a standout competition.
Why SEAMO?
SEAMO isn’t just about solving math problems; it’s about building a mindset. By encouraging logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and perseverance, SEAMO equips students with skills that extend beyond mathematics. Participants gain confidence, develop problem-solving techniques, and experience the joy of tackling challenges head-on.
Who Can Participate?
One of the key highlights of SEAMO is its inclusivity. The competition is open to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, ensuring a broad spectrum of participation. To maintain fairness and relevance, students are grouped into categories based on their grade levels. This structure allows every participant to compete within a framework tailored to their age and academic stage. Applicant should be a citizen from a southeast Asian country.
Exam Schedule
SEAMO: Typically held between August and October each year, with exact dates varying by country.
SEAMO X: Conducted a few months after SEAMO, usually in December or January, providing sufficient time for preparation.
Structure
SEAMO’s structure includes seven levels of papers: Paper K for kindergarten and Paper A through Paper F, which correspond to Grades 1-12. Beyond these, high-achieving students from SEAMO can advance to SEAMO X, a more challenging and international competition. SEAMO X is the next level after SEAMO, providing further opportunities to showcase advanced mathematical abilities.
Content and Topics by Grade Level
SEAMO’s content aligns with school curricula but introduces advanced problem-solving strategies to challenge students. Below is a detailed breakdown of concepts covered for each grade level:
Kindergarten (Paper K)
- Algebra
- Arithmetic
- Analysis
- Combinatorics
- Geometry
- Logic
- Word Problems
- Number Patterns
- Geometric Patterns
- Number Puzzles
Grade 1 to Grade 2 (Paper A)
- Basic operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication
- Patterns: Number Patterns, Sequences
- Logical reasoning: IQ, Logic, Pigeonhole Principle
- Problem-solving: Shortest Path, Queuing, Working Backwards
- Concepts: Odd/Even Numbers, Simple Speed, Time
Grade 3 to Grade 4 (Paper B)
- Basic operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division
- Problem-solving: Remainder Problems, Shortest Path, Queuing
- Patterns: Number Patterns, Number Puzzles
- Logical reasoning: IQ, Logic, Pigeonhole Principle
- Concepts: Odd/Even Numbers, Sum of a Sequence, Values of Ones Digit, Speed
- Techniques: Counting, Working Backwards
Grade 5 to Grade 6 (Paper C)
- Arithmetic Operations & Whole Numbers
- Fractions, Ratio and Percentage
- Permutation, Combination
- Number Theory: Pigeonhole Principle, Number Sequence, Prime Numbers, Prime Factorization, Square Numbers
- Logic & Problem Solving: Logic, Working Backwards, Defining New Operations
- Data & Averages: Average, Charts
- Geometry: Area of Circle, Angles and Triangles
- Speed, Probability
Grade 7 to Grade 8 (Paper D)
- Equations & Polynomials: Simple Equations, System of Equations, Multiplication of Polynomials
- Numbers & Divisibility: Rational Numbers, Divisibility, Prime and Composite Numbers, Even and Odd Numbers, Square Numbers, GCD and LCM
- Permutations and Combinations, Probability
- Geometry: Geometry, Circles, Pythagorean Theorem
- Applied Math: Problem on Journey, Profit and Loss
- Logical Principles: Pigeonhole Principle
Grade 9 to Grade 10 (Paper E)
- Equations & Algebra: Simple Equations, System of Equations, Indices, Multiplication of Polynomials
- Number Properties: Rational Numbers, Divisibility, Prime and Composite Numbers, Even and Odd Numbers, Square Numbers, GCD and LCM
- Probability & Combinatorics: Permutations and Combinations, Probability
- Geometry & Measurement: Pythagorean Theorem, Circles, Geometry
- Applied Math: Journey Problems, Profit and Loss
- Logical Concepts: Pigeonhole Principle
Grade 11 to Grade 12 (Paper F)
- Equations & Algebra: Quadratic Equations, System of Equations, Graphical Solutions to Equations, Indices, Logarithms
- Functions & Progressions: Relations and Functions, Arithmetic and Geometric Progression
- Number Properties: Rational Numbers, Number Theory, Divisibility, Prime and Composite Numbers, Even and Odd Numbers, Square Numbers, GCD and LCM
- Probability & Combinatorics: Probability, Combinatorics
- Geometry & Trigonometry: Pythagorean Theorem, Trigonometric Identities
- Advanced Topics: Binomial Theorem, Multiplication of Polynomials
Question paper format
The SEAMO exam is designed to push boundaries and encourage out-of-the-box thinking. It typically features a mix of multiple-choice and open-ended questions, requiring participants to apply logic, reasoning, and mathematical principles. The problems are non-routine and emphasize creative problem-solving over rote learning.
Paper K
- Time allocation: 40 minutes
- No. of questions: 15 multiple-choice questions.
- Grading: Questions 1 to 10 – 3 marks each.
- Questions 11 to 15 – 4 marks each.
- Total marks: 50
Paper A- F
Time allocation: 90 minutes
- No. of questions: 25
- Grading:
- Section A – Qs No. 1 to 10 – 10 Qs. – Multiple choice – 3 Marks Each
- Section B – Qs No. 11 to 20 – 10 Qs.- Multiple choice – 4 marks Each
- ection C – Qs No. 21 to 25 – 5 Qs. – Open ended – 6 Marks Each
- Total marks: 100
Calculators are not allowed.
Exam Medium
The exam is conducted either in physical centers or online, depending on the location and circumstances. The questions are presented in English.
Success Criteria
Candidates who rank among the top 40% in their country in their level receive a medal and certificate.
Recognition and Opportunities
SEAMO celebrates excellence by awarding participants based on their performance:
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals: Recognizing outstanding achievements.
- Certificates of Participation: Encouraging all students to continue their mathematical journey.
High-performing students may also qualify for SEAMO X, an advanced competition that brings together the best minds from across the region. SEAMO X offers an even more challenging environment, further honing participants’ skills and preparing them for global mathematical competitions.
SEAMO X: The Next Level
For high-achieving participants, SEAMO provides an opportunity to advance to SEAMO X, an elite-level competition that features more challenging problems and a highly competitive environment.
Who is eligible for SEAMO X?
SEAMO X is the international round where SEAMO top performing candidates represent their country on the global stage. There are two (2) different divisions in this round of the competition. Candidates in the Champions Division and Open Division will be ranked separately.
SEAMO X Champions Division: The Top 40% of Candidates in SEAMO will be registered in the Champions Division of SEAMO X.
SEAMO X Open Division: The Next 60% of Candidates in SEAMO will be registered in the Open Division of SEAMO X.
All candidates who were awarded the Certificate of Participation are eligible to participate i.e. candidates ranked lower than the 60th Percentile.
SEAMO X Exam Format
Paper K
– Section A (Multiple-Choice Questions 1 to 10) – 3 marks for each correct answer.
– Section B (Free-Response Questions 11 to 15) – 4 marks for each correct answer.
– Total: 50 mark
Paper A
– Section A (Questions 1 to 10) – 4 marks for each correct answer.
– Section B (Questions 11 to 20) – 6 marks for each correct answer.
– Total: 100 marks
Paper B, C, D, E and F
– Section A (Questions 1 to 10) – 6 marks for each correct answer.
– Section B (Questions 11 to 15) – 8 marks for each correct answer.
– Total: 100 marks
Recognition and Rewards for SEAMO X
Medals and Certificates: Top-performing students receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals, along with merit certificates, adding significant value to their academic journey.
Opportunities for Global Competitions: SEAMO X winners may qualify for other international mathematical Olympiads and programs.
How to Prepare
Success in SEAMO requires preparation, strategy, and a passion for mathematics. Here are some tips for aspiring participants:
Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the question types and structure.
Practice Regularly: Work on sample problems and past papers to build confidence.
Focus on Fundamentals: Strengthen your understanding of key mathematical concepts.
Seek Guidance: Join study groups or work with mentors to clarify doubts.
Stay Curious: Cultivate a love for learning and exploring new mathematical ideas.
Preparation Material (e-books)
- Past papers set
- Terry Chew authored Singapore Olympiad book series
- App: YooBook
Conclusion
The Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of discovery and growth for young minds. By participating in SEAMO, students not only enhance their mathematical abilities but also build critical life skills that will serve them in any field they choose to pursue. Whether you’re a math enthusiast or someone looking to challenge yourself, SEAMO is the perfect platform to showcase your talent and potential.
Are you ready to take on the challenge and join the ranks of SEAMO’s brightest minds?