Singapore Math is simply known as Math in Singapore, but in other countries, it is not. The program starts with a 3-step model where students are first shown concepts using manipulators, then through visual representations, and finally, the curriculum progresses to working with abstract concepts. E Singapore Math is a highly effective math learning system as it instills a solid understanding of basic concepts and makes them intuitive.
What is Singapore Mathβs?
Singapore Mathβs was a unique program for Singapore classrooms introduced in 1982 by the Singapore Ministry of Education. The curriculum was later adopted by US public schools after 1998, when Jeffrey and Dawn Thomas concluded that their daughters’ American math curriculum was lacking. Critics have argued that Singapore’s method of mathematics is difficult to understand for students who are already studying the Common Core Standards framework and complicates learning; however, this is not true. This changes the way students approach learning mathematics and think about their daily lives. Over time, this translates into good learning attitudes and confidence in understanding various concepts.
Despite what research says about Singapore math having a steep learning curve, there is evidence to suggest it is a superior system to the traditional math that is taught in schools. Students who previously had some gaps in their understanding of lessons find that they are getting better at thinking in abstract ways. It is not easy to suddenly implement in public schools, but it produces effective results.
How does it work?
This is how the Singapore math system for learning works:
- Singapore’s learning approach to mathematics revolves around a core structure – CPA module (concrete, pictorial, abstract).
- In the concrete phase, students physically interact with objects to understand concepts (eg, using real oranges to learn to count, divide, and multiply). Through drawing and doodles, we solve problems through the pictorial phase. Finally, in the abstract phase, symbols like +, -, * and / are used to work out the concepts.
- Textbooks and workbooks are used to complement learning naturally rather than relying on additional resources. All lessons are concise and contain engaging graphics to spark students’ interests.
- Students gain confidence while learning as they do not use rote memorization. A strong emphasis is placed on understanding the concepts mathematically and each lesson gradually progresses to the next in a sequential manner, making sure to build on previous lessons to reinforce the concepts.
- Fewer topics are covered, but each subject area in mathematics is studied in depth. Classes are generally not reviewed, but use a sequential approach.
Who is using Singapore Math?
Schools in the US are adopting Singaporean math techniques into their curricula for public and private programs. California day schools are bringing this to their classrooms from the kindergarten level, and states like Burlington and New Charter are working to improve their existing curriculum.
The math kindergarten curriculum in Singapore has already been adopted by Grand Junction, whose students are doing exceptionally well in various math programs, while places like Denver, Connecticut, Florida and Colorado are expanding their teaching standards by adding Singapore math. to their existing academic programs.
Why is Singapore Math so popular nowadays?
Singapore math is very popular because it teaches students to think mathematically from a very basic level. Each concept is explored from different angles with wide variations to help the student understand it. Creating visual representations and using physical models allows students to grasp even abstract concepts.
Traditional math programs don’t cover the visual aspect, and students who have trouble thinking abstractly tend to struggle. However, this is where Singapore Math’s examples and solutions stand out. It shows how to think in abstract ways, teaching the same lesson from different perspectives. The end result is that students not only learn how to study concepts from books, but can apply them to real-world problems and use them in practice. Not only do they learn to think deeply, but they also ask questions and check them out that really test their understanding.
Singapore math professionals
Singapore math has many pros. Listed below are some of the most important ones:
- Students learn to question their understanding of various lessons. They learn to think mathematically, which is crucial for academic success in future STEM endeavors.
- Classes are short and sweet. Most of the explanation is done through examples and photos. The focus is on understanding concepts rather than rote learning and mindless work through sections.
- Singapore is a world leader in education and even average students are considered top performers due to their strong math curriculum. This becomes clear when you compare them statistically with other countries. According to several international studies, Singaporean students consistently
Now that you understand the ins and outs of Singapore math for kids, it will be easier for you to make important decisions regarding whether to accept it or not.
It is true that children who learn mathematics online in Singapore do exceptionally well. The numbers don’t lie and the evidence shows that Singaporean students are world leaders in math, science and technology. If you’re not sure whether your child needs to learn Singapore math to do well in online, you can always speak to an education counselor. Click for more to know reasons why virtual Singapore Math is better than textbooks.
