TMSCA
TMSCA competitions consist of 4 different tests. You have the option to register for one or all tests based on your experience and interest. TMSCA competitions are open to EVERYONE until we reach the state competition which requires minimum qualifying scores. Here are some details regarding the tests:
First is the Number Sense test. It is similar to the MathLeague.org Number Sense test in format and scoring. You will have 10 minutes to complete 80-questions entirely mentally as no scratch work or even “write overs” are allowed. Learning shortcuts is essential to success on the Number Sense test. The scoring system for Number Sense is identical to that of Elementary MathLeague. Graders start with question 1 and proceed to the last question attempted. Each correct answer is worth 5 points, and each incorrect answer is worth -4 points. Problems beyond the last question attempted are not counted incorrect so no penalty is given, so the highest score you can achieve is a 400.
Next is the Calculator Applications test. This is a 30 minute, 80 question test that includes calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, roots, powers, exponential, logarithms, trigonometric functions and inverse trigonometric functions. In addition to straightforward calculation problems, the contest includes geometric and stated problems similar to those found in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, previous contests and League materials. Scoring for Calculator tests is identical to Number Sense, so the highest score you can achieve is a 400. If you love calculators are are super speedy at using them, this might be the contest for you.
The third test for TMSCA is General Mathematics. It is a 40 minute - 50 question exam designed to test knowledge and understanding in mathematical areas from middle school all the way to high school. The general mathematics test is more skills-based rather than complex problem-solving questions like those found on AMC or MathCounts-type tests. All problems answered correctly are worth FIVE points. TWO points will be deducted for all problems answered incorrectly. No points will be added or subtracted for problems not answered, so the highest score you can achieve is a 250.
The General Math test is by far our most popular test for math club participants.
Finally, the Science test is a 40 minute - 50 question test that asks a wide range of questions relating to biology, chemistry, physics, earth science and life science. All problems answered correctly are worth FIVE points. TWO points will be deducted for all problems answered incorrectly. No points will be added or subtracted for problems not answered, so the highest score you can achieve is a 250.
So, what does it take to qualify for State TMSCA? First, you have to attend at least one “Qualifying Meet.” There are usually 3-4 qualifiers including a regional qualifier during the Spring semester. Although the TMSCA organizers set minimum qualifying scores for state, Quail Valley has decided to raise that bar due to the large size of our group. The specific criteria for qualifying to attend WITH the Quail Valley group changes from year to year and will be communicated at the beginning of the Spring semester, so watch your email for specific information.
Let’s look at the scores from the 2017 state competition, so you can determine your personal goals. Remember, the state test is always the hardest test of the year!
First is the Number Sense test. It is similar to the MathLeague.org Number Sense test in format and scoring. You will have 10 minutes to complete 80-questions entirely mentally as no scratch work or even “write overs” are allowed. Learning shortcuts is essential to success on the Number Sense test. The scoring system for Number Sense is identical to that of Elementary MathLeague. Graders start with question 1 and proceed to the last question attempted. Each correct answer is worth 5 points, and each incorrect answer is worth -4 points. Problems beyond the last question attempted are not counted incorrect so no penalty is given, so the highest score you can achieve is a 400.
Next is the Calculator Applications test. This is a 30 minute, 80 question test that includes calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, roots, powers, exponential, logarithms, trigonometric functions and inverse trigonometric functions. In addition to straightforward calculation problems, the contest includes geometric and stated problems similar to those found in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, previous contests and League materials. Scoring for Calculator tests is identical to Number Sense, so the highest score you can achieve is a 400. If you love calculators are are super speedy at using them, this might be the contest for you.
The third test for TMSCA is General Mathematics. It is a 40 minute - 50 question exam designed to test knowledge and understanding in mathematical areas from middle school all the way to high school. The general mathematics test is more skills-based rather than complex problem-solving questions like those found on AMC or MathCounts-type tests. All problems answered correctly are worth FIVE points. TWO points will be deducted for all problems answered incorrectly. No points will be added or subtracted for problems not answered, so the highest score you can achieve is a 250.
The General Math test is by far our most popular test for math club participants.
Finally, the Science test is a 40 minute - 50 question test that asks a wide range of questions relating to biology, chemistry, physics, earth science and life science. All problems answered correctly are worth FIVE points. TWO points will be deducted for all problems answered incorrectly. No points will be added or subtracted for problems not answered, so the highest score you can achieve is a 250.
So, what does it take to qualify for State TMSCA? First, you have to attend at least one “Qualifying Meet.” There are usually 3-4 qualifiers including a regional qualifier during the Spring semester. Although the TMSCA organizers set minimum qualifying scores for state, Quail Valley has decided to raise that bar due to the large size of our group. The specific criteria for qualifying to attend WITH the Quail Valley group changes from year to year and will be communicated at the beginning of the Spring semester, so watch your email for specific information.
Let’s look at the scores from the 2017 state competition, so you can determine your personal goals. Remember, the state test is always the hardest test of the year!