AMC8 Prep: Building Math Champions at CFI
CFI Admin Team
Sep 28, 2025
Students at the CFI Robotics Center are taking on one of the toughest academic challenges in middle school: preparing for the AMC8 and MATHCOUNTS competitions. With weekly sessions full of problem-solving, strategy, and teamwork, our AMC8 Prep class is helping students build confidence and sharpen their math skills.
Learning to Think Like a Competitor
The AMC8 requires students to combine accuracy, speed, and strategy under time pressure. Each week, our class takes on challenging material that encourages students to see math as a series of puzzles waiting to be solved. They are learning to identify patterns, test multiple strategies, and strengthen their problem-solving skills in a supportive, collaborative setting.
Students also work through past AMC8 contests, breaking down the problems step by step. This process helps them recognize common pitfalls and practice the habits of successful competitors.
What We Have Covered So Far
The class has already explored a wide range of topics, including:
Quadratics: how to solve quadratic equations and recognize shortcuts
Counting problems: systematic methods for combinatorics and probability
“Moles and digging holes” puzzles: applying logical thinking to layered word problems
Basic algebra: strengthening skills with equations, expressions, and quick-solving tricks
Each new topic builds on the last, giving students a stronger toolkit to handle the variety of problems they will face on the AMC8.
More Than Just Math Practice
While the AMC8 is a timed contest, the lessons go beyond test preparation. Students are learning how to:
Manage their time under pressure
Communicate their reasoning clearly
Support one another through group problem-solving
Turn mistakes into opportunities to learn
The class atmosphere is both focused and encouraging, with serious problem-solving balanced by moments of excitement when a tricky challenge finally makes sense.
Looking Ahead
As October continues, students will expand into more advanced algebra, probability, and geometry topics. The course will conclude with a simulated AMC8 contest, giving them a chance to put their new strategies into action under real competition conditions.
Whether students compete in AMC8, MATHCOUNTS, or simply apply these skills in school, the confidence and critical thinking they are developing will carry far beyond this fall.
Join Our Next Weekend Session
Our next set of fall weekend classes begins October 18th at the CFI Robotics Center. Spots are limited, so now is the perfect time to register and save your seat.
Check out upcoming weekend classes and register here:https://forms.gle/C64M6V85XK87okFU8