The Fan4 is different...
The Fan4 is different from other math competitions in some important ways.
1) The problems are visually engaging and fun. Many traditional questions from school, and many classic word problems on competitions, will not be found on the Fan4.
2) We believe everyone should understand what each question is asking. After most questions we provide "Background" information (on a separate slide) so that students 'get it.' The Fan4 is not designed to test mastery of definitions or reading comprehension. It's about problem solving.
3) We provide "Materials" after many of the questions (on a separate slide) that facilitate problem solving. Students can work with the "Materials" as they see fit. For example, students can: 1) color an object; 2) draw lines between objects, 3) enter numbers in a grid; 4) copy, paste, and move objects.
4) We want students to experience the satisfaction of solving hard problems, and we want to give them the time to do so. After the competition, teams are encouraged to participate in “Picture Perfect.” Each team will have access to the same competition, but this time a hint is provided for each problem. There is no timer. Teams are allowed multiple attempts. Family, friends, teachers, and tutors can help with hints and suggestions. Any team that scores 100% has their team name entered into the Picture Perfect Hall of Fame.
Competition Details
Test duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Test window: April 23 - May 8
Registration closes: April 21
Level 1 teams: most participants are in grades 1-3
Level 2 teams: most participants are in grades 4-6
Level 3 teams: most participants are in grades 7-9
There are 30 questions, and 2 bonus questions.
There is no penalty for guessing.
What you can use: scratch paper, any kind of graph paper, scissors, rulers, compass, protractor, mirrors, centimeter cubes, Zome, legos, colored pencils, etc.
What you can't use: math textbooks, calculators, spreadsheets, Desmos, Geogebra, Siri, Google Search, or computer programs.
The Fan4 Spring 2022 is different...
* Teams can have 1-6 students.
* Teams can have team members from different schools.
* Teams can pick any level competition (a leaderboard will be created for each grade).
* Asynchronous testing: your team can pick any ~2hr window during the 2 week test window.
* Parents receive a copy of the questions when the 2-week test window opens.
* The answer form has a built in timer; when time is up your answers are automatically submitted.
Steps to Participate
Step 1: All parents of team members fill out one of these 3 forms (only 2 questions!):
Level 1
Step 2: Build your team. Reconnect with old team members and/or recruit new members. As people join, ask them to fill out the form (Step 1).
Step 3: Before the 2-week test window opens, contact members of your team to decide:
* The name of your team
* Your team's captain (this person will input the team's answers into the online answer form)
* The date and time your team will take the test
* The team's logistics for participation (in-person, zoom call, etc)
Pro-tip: When you open your answer form on test day, your timer will start. You will have 2 hours and 15 minutes. This gives you ~15 minutes for data entry about the team, and ~30 extra minutes to solve problems. You will be asked for one parent email (to receive the scored answer form), your team's name, each person's name, number of team members, schools represented, and the highest grade of all team members. Be prepared to answer these questions (save time!)
Step 4: Be on the lookout for an email the night before the 2-week test window starts. We will be providing links to answer forms and questions.