Department of Mathematics and Philosophy

Math Competitions

Competitions are hosted by the WIU Department of Mathematics and Philosophy on the Campus of Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois.

  • American Mathematics Contest 8 (AMC 8)
  • American Mathematics Contest 10/12 (AMC 10/12) - November 16, 2023
  • Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) State Math Contest

WIU Contact

Kim Hartweg, Professor
Office: Morgan Hall 224
Phone: (309) 298-2313
Email: KK-Hartweg@wiu.edu

American Mathematics Contest 8 (AMC 8)

The American Mathematics Contest 8 (AMC 8) is for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. It is a 25 question, 40 minute multiple choice examination in middle school mathematics designed to promote the development and enhancement of problem solving skills. Schools may register their school with AMC and administer the test. As an alternative, for students at a school which is not administering the test, WIU offers to be a host site so that students who wish to take the AMC may take it through the Department of Mathematics and Philosophy.

Visit the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) regarding AMC 8 competition details.

American Mathematics Contest 10/12 (AMC 10, AMC 12) - November 16, 2023

The AMC 10 and the AMC 12 (American Mathematics Competition) will be offered at Western Illinois University on November 16, 2023 at no charge. Availability is limited so registration is on a first come/first serve basis.

  • Time: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
  • Location: Morgan Hall ?

The American Mathematical Competitions contests are intended for everyone from the average student at a typical school who enjoys mathematics to the very best student at the most special school. They are sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America and have been offered for over 60 years. Learn more https://www.maa.org/math-competitions

Eligibility
AMC 12

A student in a program leading to a high school diploma, and under 19.5 years of age on the day of the contest.

AMC 10

A student in a program leading to a high school diploma, under 17.5 years of age on the day of the contest, and not enrolled in grades 11 or 12 or equivalent.

Questions

Both the AMC 10 and AMC 12 are 25-question, 75-minute multiple-choice contests. To challenge students at all grade levels, and with varying mathematical skills, the problems range from fairly easy to extremely difficult. Approximately 12 questions are common to both contests. Students may not use calculators on the contests .

  • The AMC 12 covers the high school mathematics curriculum, excluding calculus.
  • The AMC 10 covers subject matter normally associated with grades 9 and 10.
Scoring
  • Each correct answer scores 6 points,
  • a blank scores 1.5 points and
  • an incorrect answer scores 0 points.
Checklist for Success
  • Ensure all requirements for eligibility are met prior to registering.
  • All registration forms must be complete and delivered on time.
  • Prepare for the competition using AMC 10/12 past competitions problems (selected problems are provided on this page).
  • Arrive at the scheduled time and location 10 minutes early.
Results

After the contest is taken, the contest administrator sends the answer forms to the headquarters of AMC, and they score, compile and send email results back to us, usually within 3 weeks. They will also follow up with a written report, accompanied by the awards for the school.

  • AMC 12 students who rank in the top 5% nationally (or score at least 100 out of 150 points) will qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME).
  • AMC 10 students who rank in the top 1% nationally (or score at least 120 out of 150 points) will also qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME).
American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME)

The AIME is intended to provide further challenge and recognition, beyond that provided by the AMC 10 or AMC 12, to the many high school students in North America who have exceptional mathematical ability. The top scoring U. S. citizens and students legally residing in the United States and Canada (with qualifying scores, based on a weighted average) are invited to take the United States of America Mathematics Olympiad (USAMO)

Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) State Math Contest

The purpose of the ICTM State Math Contest is to recognize outstanding mathematical achievement, encourage independent study, stimulate interest in mathematics, and provide a wholesome meeting ground for students and teachers of mathematics through academic competition.

  • Grades 3 - 8 each have a unique grade level competition
  • Junior High students are also eligible for our "Algebra" competition
  • High School Students can compete in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus in a variety of formats.

Please visit the official website for more information.