How to Participate in English Olympiad | English Olympiad for Class 9 PDF Download

What is IEO?

The International English Olympiad (IMO) is an exciting competition arranged by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for students from grades 1 to 10. It's all about learning numbers and logical skills while having fun. The competition gives students a chance to grow their confidence and become better at building logics and have a good understanding of solving hard and complex problems.
IEO 2023-24 Eligibility Criteria: 

• The Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) mandates that schools register their students for participation.
• Schools not yet registered can complete the registration process by sending an email to the SOF.
• Eligibility for the IEO is limited to pupils in grades 1 through 10.
• Application forms must be completed and submitted solely through the student's respective school; individual applications are not accepted by the Science Olympiad Foundation.
• Mathematics is compulsory subjects for all students intending to participate. 
• Participation in the examination is restricted to students from recognized boards such as CBSE, ICSE, and state boards.

Steps to participate in IEO

To take part, students simply need to follow these simple instructions:

Accessing Registration forms:

• Students in classes 1 to 10 are eligible to participate in the SOF IEO.
• Registration forms are given to all the schools that are already part of SOF.
• Schools not yet registered can request prospectuses by emailing info@sofworld.org or making a phone call.

Completing and Returning Forms:

• After all the students have submitted their forms, schools are required to return the registration forms to SOF, completely filled out and in good order, by the specified deadline.

Roll Numbers:

• The school's coordinating teacher is responsible for completing the School Registration Form (SRF) and Students' Registration Sheet (SRS) following the provided guidelines.
• These forms should be sent to SOF's office before the designated submission deadline.
• Upon receipt of the Students' Registration Sheet (SRS) from the school, SOF will register the school and students.
• SOF will then generate roll numbers for all participating students.

Registration Fee Details:

• Schools in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, & Nepal pay a registration fee of Rs 125* (including GST) per student/Olympiad to SOF for the examination.
• An extra charge of Rs 25** per student may be added by schools for in-charge honorarium, teacher remuneration, and other expenses.
• For countries outside India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, & Nepal, the registration fee is US$9 per student/Olympiad*, with an additional US$1** per student for related expenses.
• *Includes GST.
• **Additional charge for related expenses.

Fee Exemption: 

• Students with major physical disabilities or Indian students whose parent was martyred during defense operations are exempt from fees.

No Individual Registrations:

• It's important to note that individual student registrations are not accepted. Students should register through their respective schools to participate in the IEO.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Pattern:

• The IEO exam comprises three stages for students.
• Section I covers Word and Structure. 
• Section II focuses on Reading. 
• Section III emphasizes on Spoken and Written Expression.
• Section IV is the Achievers Section.
• The question paper includes 35 objective-type questions for Classes 1 to 4 and 50 for Classes 5 to 10.
• Duration: Students have 60 minutes to complete it.

Marking Scheme:

The exam pattern and the marking scheme has been outlined in the table below:

IEO Exam Pattern for Class 9 (Level 1):

IEO Exam Pattern for Class 9 (Level 2):

Note: There is no negative marking. 

Syllabus:

• Word & Structure Knowledge (Section - 1): Synonyms, Antonyms, Analogies and Spellings, One word, Word order, Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs, Adverbs, Adjectives, Articles, Prepositions, Conjunctions, Punctuations, Jumbled words, Voices, Concord, Question forms, Tenses, Conditionals, Modals, Reported speech. Collocations, Phrasal verbs, Idioms, Homonyms and homophones, Words related to social cause, Travel, Workplace, etc. 
• Reading (Section - 2): Search for and retrieve information from various text types like Flyers, Classifieds, Dictionaries, etc., Understand information presented in instruction manual format, Message format and others. Acquire broad understanding of and look for specific information in longer texts like editorials, Essays, etc. 
• Spoken & Written Expression (Section 3):  Ability to understand situation-based variations in functions like Giving/Accepting compliments, Agreeing, Disagreeing, Requesting, Seeking information, Pronunciation, etc.
• Achievers Section (Section 4): Higher Order Thinking Questions - Syllabus as per Sections 1, 2 and 3.

Benefits 

1. Enhanced English Proficiency: The IEO focuses on various aspects of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills. Preparing for and participating in the Olympiad helps students improve their overall command of English.
2. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills: The questions in the IEO often require students to think critically and analyze texts thoroughly. This helps in developing higher-order thinking skills that are essential for academic success.
3. Early Exposure to Competitive Exams: Participating in the IEO provides students with early exposure to competitive exams, preparing them for future academic challenges and standardized tests.
4. Curriculum Reinforcement: The Olympiad syllabus often aligns with the school curriculum, reinforcing what students learn in class and helping them perform better in school exams.
5. Confidence Building: Successfully competing in the IEO can boost students' confidence in their language abilities, encouraging them to take on more challenging academic and extracurricular activities.
6. Scholarships and Future Opportunities: High performers in the IEO may become eligible for scholarships and other educational opportunities. This can be a stepping stone to further academic and professional achievements.
7. Networking: Participation in international competitions like the IEO allows students to network with like-minded peers and educators, which can lead to collaborative learning and future opportunities.
8. Enhanced College Applications: Achievements in the IEO can be highlighted in college applications, showcasing a student's dedication to academic excellence and their proficiency in English.
9.  Career Advantages: Strong English skills are essential in almost every profession. Excelling in the IEO demonstrates a high level of language proficiency, which can be advantageous in a wide range of careers, especially those requiring strong communication skills.

These benefits, along with the intellectual growth and personal development that come from participating in Olympiad competitions, make them highly rewarding experiences for students. 

Preparation Tips and Tricks

Preparing for the Class 9 English Olympiad may seem difficult, but it's an exciting chance. Instead of just a test, view it as an adventure to discover the world of numbers and logic. With enthusiasm and dedication, you can approach it successfully, enjoying the process of learning and solving problems. 

To support you on this journey, we've prepared some useful tips and tricks:

Preparation:

• Understand the syllabus thoroughly and plan to cover topics each day.
• Choose a consistent time and place for studying to maintain regularity.
• Focus on learning with a clear conceptual understanding.
• Take notes while studying, highlighting key points and important topics for easier revision.
• After completing the syllabus, practice chapter-wise questions and mock tests to identify strengths and weaknesses and improve accordingly.
• Once confident with the syllabus, solve previous year's question papers to understand the exam pattern, enhance time management skills, and improve speed and accuracy.

Exam Strategies:

• Stay calm and focused. Take deep breaths and read instructions carefully.
• Effective time management. Allocate time for each section based on strengths and question numbers.
• Careful reading. Analyze questions before attempting answers and identify keywords.
• Utilize the elimination technique. Eliminate wrong options if uncertain about an answer.
• Double-check. Review answers to avoid mistakes before submitting.

Bonus Tips:

• Stay curious! Experiment, ask questions, and explore the world of numbers and logic.
• Use language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone, which gamify the learning process with quizzes, interactive exercises, and rewards. Read books, comics, or graphic novels in English. Watch English movies and TV shows with subtitles. This helps with listening skills and understanding conversational English.
• Believe in yourself. Have confidence in your preparation and give your best effort.

Remember:

• IEO is challenging yet rewarding; focus on learning and enjoying the journey.
• Celebrate achievements, learn from mistakes, and keep your passion alive.