Solving complex mathematics problems on a time crunch can be a challenge. However, there’s no need to fret about the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) Mathematics exam. We’ve got you covered with some pointers from Dick Hui, a top tutor at King’s Glory Education, that will help you approach the exam with confidence.
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Don’t make assumptions
One common mistake students make on the exam is overlooking the conditions in the question, which can lead to errors, Hui said. Students can misinterpret the given information and make assumptions, especially when it comes to problems involving diagrams.
“Students might mistakenly assume a line is the diameter of a circular shape, even if it is not mentioned in the question, or they might assume a line is a tangent without specification,” he explained.
In Paper 1, Hui noted that students often forget to answer follow-up questions and move on to the next one. When solving inequations, students might calculate the range of X but fail to proceed further when asked to find the maximum value of X.
Another common mistake candidates make is neglecting to simplify their answers to the final form. Students should check if their answers are simplified before moving on to the next question; for example, it is important to ensure that fractions are reduced.
Watch out for new types of questions
For the challenging questions, the tutor noted that new question types have become increasingly common in recent years, and candidates generally find them difficult to handle.
Hui referenced Question 37 from last year’s exam, which was about linear programming.
“These are relatively new question formats where the problems cannot be solved simply using the graphical method ... Instead, they involve reversing and finding the value of K within the optimal functions,” he said.
Although these are unfamiliar question types for students, Hui stressed that if students understand linear programming and the concepts for finding maximum and minimum values, they can solve these questions using the same principles.
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What to review
Hui mentioned that Trigonometry 3D problems and coordinate geometry have a high chance of appearing on this year’s 12-mark questions. Additionally, candidates should pay attention to arithmetic and geometric sequences, as they could also appear as long questions.
He also highlighted the importance of statistics, which carries a significant number of marks in Paper 1 and is relatively easier to handle. Students should familiarise themselves with solving data adjustment questions and box-and-whisker diagrams.
Many questions require students to carefully read and understand the wording, especially in topics like coordinate geometry and mensuration. To tackle these problems effectively, Hui advised students to try drawing the figures and diagrams before proceeding with their calculations.
Finally, don’t be afraid to draw on your knowledge from different maths disciplines, the tutor said. “For geometry questions, don’t limit yourself to the theorems within the topic. Sometimes, skills from other topics like trigonometry are needed,” Hui explained.
Manage time efficiently
Time management is key for candidates aiming for a top grade. Hui suggested allocating around 15 to 20 minutes for Section A1, allowing more time for the complex questions. Pupils should also leave time for final checking.
For Paper 2, around five questions will require the most time to tackle, and students should prioritise other questions before dealing with them.
For those aiming for a passing grade, the tutor recommended allocating more time to Section A of the exam, adding that it is important to aim for a score of over 30 marks in Section A1. You should also complete all Part A questions in Sections A2 and B.
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Hui said students should aim to complete as many questions as possible on Paper 2. If necessary, they can skip up to 20 questions in the first round.
“In the second round, focus on tackling the unfamiliar questions, but prioritise those involving relatively easier topics, such as probability and statistics,” the tutor advised.
“In Paper 2, precise time control is essential. Spending too much time on difficult questions can lead to insufficient time to complete the paper,” he added.
