Excused from Lessons

This is posted by LJ's mum
In preparation for the SIMO National Team Selection Test (NTST) on 30 Apr and 1 May (4.5 hrs each day, 9 am to 1.30 pm), Lim Jeck has been excused from lessons and CCA commitments this week (25 Apr to 1 May).

As stated in the letter, the arrangement is to allow students from the National Team to fully concentrate on a 5-day intensive training, to increase the chance of qualifying for the IMO National Team 2011. Alternative arrangements will be made for lessons missed.

I appreciate NUS High's support of her students in their aspirations to become part of the 6-member Singapore IMO team.

In my opinion, it is not really necessary for students to be pulled out from all classes to fully focus on either the selection tests or (if selected) the intensive preparation for the competition itself (which could last 6-7 weeks). Consistent, on-going work (for instance, doing a few IMO question(s) on a daily/weekly basis) is probably more important. Unless you are really competent in the subjects missed, taking a long leave may be detrimental to your studies, and you are bound to have a tough time catching up. It won't be easy to make alternative arrangements for most lessons missed, since you are probably busy attending classes. Extension for assessment deadlines may not help much, since you will be overwhelmed with new homework and assessment for current classes. For group projects, it may not be fair for your group members to cover your area in your absence.

I think it is good that students are given the flexibility to attend any particular lessons. They can decide on missing those lessons which have the least impact on them. These may include subjects that they are already strong at (e.g. Maths), lessons that are inconsequential (e.g. PE, CCA).

If Lim Jeck is selected again, it would be the 3rd time that he is representing Singapore in IMO. If he is not selected, it is okay as he has 2 more chances, in 2012 and 2013.

May the most deserving students (from whichever schools) from the national team get selected into the IMO Singapore Team 2011! :)