IJIO (International Junior Informatics Olympiad)
for Grades 1-7 (NZ Years 2-8).
IJIO focuses on computational thinking and block programming, essential for robotics and problem-solving. It emphasizes:
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a. Computational Thinking: Breaking down complex problems, recognizing patterns, and creating step-by-step solutions, crucial for both programming and robotics.
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b. Basic Programming Concepts: Block programming introduces loops, conditionals, and functions in an intuitive way, building a foundation for understanding programming logic.
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c. Transition to Text-Based Coding: Block programming helps ease the shift to text-based coding, preparing students for syntax and more abstract programming concepts.
Pre-Requisite for the IJIO 2025
NJIO 2025
NJCO 2025
IJMO 2025
students
Bronze, Silver, Gold, Perfect Score: Eligible
Bronze, Silver, Gold, Perfect Score: Eligible
All students who qualify for IJMO: Eligible
IJIO
2025
IJIO format: Individual Round
International Junior Informatics Olympiad – (GRADES 1-12, NZ Years 2-13)
Duration: 1 hour
Objective:
- To assess and improve individual coding skills.
- To evaluate problem-solving abilities.
- To encourage independent thinking and creativity.
- To assess participants' ability to apply programming knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Learning Outcome:
Participants gain proficiency in coding and problem-solving skills, which are essential in real-world applications of technology.
Evaluation by Judges:
Programs are assessed based on correctness, efficiency, and adherence to the provided requirements.
Section I
Design a Flow chart/Program flow diagram as a solution for the problem statement. (50 Marks)
Section II
Use Microsoft MakeCode for BBC Micro:bit and create a program/code for the given tasks. (50 Marks)
VIJSO format: Individual Round
Competition Structure
Section I
The student will draw the flowchart diagram on the contest booklet and make sure to review the work before submission to ensure that all components are included.
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Instructions for Creating the Flowchart:
· Clear Labels: Use clear and concise labels for each step in the flowchart.
· Flow Indicators: Use arrows to indicate the flow of control between steps.
· Shapes for Actions: Use different shapes (e.g. rectangles for processes, diamonds for decision, ovals for start/end) to represent different types of actions or decisions.
· Descriptions: Include clear descriptions in the diagram to explain specific parts of the flowchart.
· Testing: Test the flowchart by tracing through it with different input values to ensure it produces the correct output.
· Hand Drawing Materials: You will be provided with pencil and an eraser to draw the flowchart diagram by hand on the contest booklet. All students will receive the same stationary for drawing.
· Neatness and Readability: Marks will be awarded not only for the correctness of the flowchart diagram but also for neatness, including clear and legible symbols and overall readability.
Section II
• Choose a location (like your Desktop or a specific folder) and click Save. The downloaded file will have a .hex extension, which is the format needed for the
• Save your filename as[indexnumber].hex
Example 065000123456.hex
• Save your filename as[indexnumber].zip
Example 065000123456.zip
if you do not hove zip in your laptop, please download from the below link:
httos://7-zin.ora/download.html
Submit your Program File to Member Development Portal (MDP)
• Upload your program file.
IJIO: Team Challenge
Overview
The Team Round of the International Junior Informatics Olympiad (IJIO) is an engaging and collaborative segment of the competition that goes beyond individual problem-solving. It is designed to test participants’ ability to apply programming knowledge in real-world scenarios while working effectively in a team setting.
In this round, students collaborate to solve a series of challenging tasks that require algorithmic thinking, logical reasoning, and practical coding skills. The format emphasizes not only technical knowledge but also teamwork, communication, and strategy, as participants must coordinate their efforts and leverage each other’s strengths to achieve the best results.
Through the Team Round, participants enhance their problem-solving and coding skills while gaining valuable experience in applying computational concepts to practical challenges. It is both a test of technical ability and a celebration of collaboration, preparing students for future academic and professional pursuits in the digital world.
IJIO: Format of Team Challenge
In the previous round, each team member designed individual programs to meet the given objectives. In this round, work as a team to select the best program created by your members. Using the provided materials, build a practical model based on the chosen program and present the final model to the judges.
Duration: 3 hours
Total Points of this round: 100 marks
Section I
Select the best Program
(5 marks)
Section II
Design the Project
(20 marks)
Section III
Develop the Program Based on Your Design
(30 marks)
Section IV
Build and test the model
(33 marks)
Section V
Presentation of Your Project
(12 marks)
IJIO format: Team Challenge
Competition Structure
Safety Instructions for Handling Electronic Components and Tools:
Handling Of Electronics: Always handle electronic components, such as the Micro:bit, sensors, and batteries, with care. Ensure your hands are dry to avoid any short Circuits.
Wiring and connections: When connecting wires, be sure to connect them correctly Incorrect connections can damage the components.
Battery safety: Be careful when handling batteries. Do not short the battery terminals and ensure they are inserted ill the correct orientation.
Use Of Tools: If you are using any tools like scissors or glue, use them responsibly, scissors should be handled with care, and glue should be used in a well-ventilated area.
General Safety: Keep your workspace organized to avoid accidents. If any component or tool is malfunctioning,.stop using it immediately and inform an invigilator.
Teamwork, Effective Communication, and Time Management:
Teamwork: collaborate and share responsibilities equally among team members. Recognize each other's strengths and delegate tasks accordingly.
Communication: Maintain clear and respectful communication within your team. Listen to each other's ideas and build upon them. If disagreements arise, resolve them constructively.
Time Management: Be mindful Of the time constraints Plan your activities and divide your time effectively between programming, building the model, and preparing for the presentation. Regularly check the time to Stay on track.
Evaluation Criteria:
Technical Implementation: Focus on the accuracy and efficiency of your programming. Ensure that your program meets the specified objectives and integrates new features seamlessly.
Design Accuracy: your design and Circuit diagram should be precise and reflect a clear understanding Of how each component interacts. Accuracy in your design is crucial far a successful build.
Presentation Skills: prepare for a clear and engaging presentation. Each team member should understand and be able to explain different aspects of the project. Practice your presentation to ensure clarity and confidence.
Overall Focus: Remember that the evaluation covers all aspects of the project — from the Technical implementation and design accuracy to teamwork and presentation Skills. Pay attention to each of these areas to excel in the competition. Make sure your final program accurately reflects the design you created in Section II and fulfills all project requirements.
How to test your program on Micro:bit:
How to download and submit your program:
How to submit your presentation slide:
IJIO Awards: Individual Awards
IJIO Awards: Team Awards
Gold Award: Top 10%
Silver Award: Next 15%
Bronze Award: Next 25%
IJIO Awards: Overall Championship Awards
Computation Rules
1. Eligibility Requirement
A student must win a Gold Medal in the Individual Round to be considered for the Overall Championship.
2. Team Round Award Points
Gold Award in Team Round = 15 points
Silver Award in Team Round = 10 points
Bronze Award in Team Round = 5 points
3. Overall Points Formula
Overall Points = Individual Round Score + Team Round Award Points
4. Determining the Winners
Overall Champion - Student with the highest overall points
Overall 1st Runner-up - Student with the second highest overall points
Overall 2nd Runner-up - Student with the third highest overall points
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Please kindly note that Overall Championship will only be awarded for division or grade that has more than 50 participants.
Overall Champion
· Trophy
· Certificate
· IJHS induction
· YALA Gold Scholarship 2026
· SGD 250 Gift Voucher
Overall Runner-Up
· Trophy
· Certificate
· IJHS induction
· SGD 150 Gift Voucher
Overall 2nd Runner-Up
· Trophy
· Certificate
· SGD 100 Gift Voucher
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