{"id":3060,"date":"2023-08-01T18:03:49","date_gmt":"2023-08-01T18:03:49","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.studypug.com\/?p=3060"},"modified":"2024-08-06T17:37:51","modified_gmt":"2024-08-06T17:37:51","slug":"math-from-a-different-perspective-singapore-math","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/blog.studypug.com\/math-from-a-different-perspective-singapore-math\/","title":{"rendered":"Math From a Different Perspective: Singapore Math"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Math is often a student\u2019s most difficult subject in school, followed by physics<\/a>, languages, calculus<\/a>, and biology. While working through derivatives<\/a>, trigonometry<\/a>, and statistics<\/a>, you might be wondering: what exactly is the importance of math? Studies show that math can improve problem solving skills, promote healthy brain function, support logical reasoning and analytical thinking, and encourage flexibility and creativity.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, is classroom learning the best way to develop these skills? There are different ways of learning, from visual, auditory, reading and writing, and kinaesthetic. The standard classroom method might not work for everyone, but there is a concept of math that embodies every type of learning and encourages real-world applications: Singapore math.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Singapore math<\/a> is a term used to describe the mathematics curriculum developed and used in Singapore<\/a>. It\u2019s a method of learning that uses three distinct approaches to understand mathematical concepts and problem-solving. It uses concrete, pictorial, and abstract approaches to encourage students to think actively, understand, and communicate to solve math problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Before the 1980s, Singapore imported math textbooks from other countries and found that its students were ranked lower than other countries in math. They decided to develop their own textbooks, publishing their own program in 1982. In 1995, Singapore students were often ranked first in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study<\/a>, and have maintained their high ranking ever since.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This framework was developed on the basis that problem solving is central to learning math. It involves the acquisition and application of mathematical concepts and skills in a variety of situations, including non-routine, open-ended, and real-world problems. Singapore math highlights these five areas when teaching problem solving: attitudes, metacognition, process, concepts, and skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Singapore math also utilizes the CPA (Concrete to Pictorial to Abstract<\/a>) Approach. Let\u2019s break down each section and how students can learn math through this approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Concrete Learning<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are a number of mathematical concepts that cover numeracy, algebra, geometry, statistics, probability, and analysis. Students learning Singapore math would be given concrete materials, such as cubes, blocks, place value mats, geometric figures, and practical work to understand these concepts and encourage active thinking. Along with the emphasis on mental math and model drawing, it helps students transition better to more complex mathematical problems and algebra. There is emphasis on \u201cwhy\u201d before \u201chow.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pictorial Learning<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once students have mastered the concrete, they\u2019ll focus on the pictorial. This may involve model drawing, drawing circles, dots, or number bonds. This is an excellent way to solve word problems because it can be used as a visual aid and as a way to extend learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract Learning<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, students can utilize the previous approaches to understand mathematical concepts at a symbolic level using numbers, notations, and math symbols. SStudents are encouraged to reflect on these mathematical attributes and relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After understanding what Singapore math entails, you might be wondering: does this fit with my child’s learning style? Here are a few pros and cons for the curriculum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pros of Singapore Math<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n