Preparation Tips
How to help students get ready for the Lion Cubs Mathematical Contest.
school For Teachers
Use the Practice Papers
Every registered team receives three practice papers. Work through them with your students in class to familiarise them with the question style.
Review the Syllabus
Check the Syllabus for each age group to understand which topics are covered.
Encourage Problem-Solving
The LCMC tests creative thinking, not rote learning. Encourage students to explore different approaches and explain their reasoning.
Create a Positive Atmosphere
Frame the contest as a fun challenge, not a high-pressure exam. Students perform best when they feel supported and curious rather than anxious.
Group Practice Sessions
Organise short practice sessions where students work through problems together, discuss strategies, and learn from each other.
family_restroom For Parents
Support, Don't Pressure
Encourage your child to enjoy the challenge. Mathematical confidence grows through positive experiences, not stress.
Practise at Home
Use everyday situations — shopping, cooking, travel — to practise mental arithmetic, estimation, and logical reasoning.
Work Through Practice Papers Together
If participating online, sit with your child and discuss the practice paper questions. Focus on understanding the problem before jumping to a solution.
Celebrate Effort
Praise effort and perseverance, not just correct answers. A student who tries hard and learns from mistakes is building real mathematical skill.
emoji_people For Students
Read Carefully
Always read each question twice before answering. Many mistakes happen because students rush through the question.
Try Different Approaches
If one method doesn't work, try another. Drawing a picture, making a list, or working backwards can help unlock a tricky problem.
Don't Get Stuck
If a question is too hard, move on and come back to it later. Answer the ones you know first.
Check Your Work
If you finish early, go back and check your answers. Look for silly mistakes like copying numbers wrong or misreading a question.
Have Fun!
The LCMC is a chance to play with maths and show what you can do. Enjoy it!
lightbulb Recommended Study Approach
Step 1: Review the Syllabus
Check which topics are covered for your age group and identify any areas that need extra attention.
Step 2: Work Through Practice Papers
Attempt the practice papers under timed conditions to build familiarity with the format.
Step 3: Discuss and Learn
After attempting, review the answers together and discuss why each solution works.
Step 4: Stay Curious
Explore maths puzzles, games, and real-world problems in the weeks leading up to the contest.
Next: Read about What to Expect on Contest Day or review the Contest Rules.