Singapore Math
for Pr 3 to Pr 4 students

Singapore Math gives some pointers to Singapore moms just tearing their hair out teaching their kids math.

Model drawing is required in our Singapore math syllabus, this is a build-up to using algebra in Secondary 1. But apparently, there are children who grasp the concept of algebra to solve the PSLE questions instead of the slower model drawing method.

Starting Young

Primary school math has proven to be a great challenge for parents who have left the work a little late. As far as possible, start working with your kids when they are younger, always teaching ahead where possible. This principle goes for all subjects, I would think, especially Chinese.

The problem sums that they have to solve are now very 'difficult' by our (parents') standards. This is all the more reason for them to get as much practice as possible. Some kids don't really like math. Too bad! They need the practice even more then. They can only score when they know their work like the back of their hand.

The best method as taught to me by Em (read Em's story if you haven't done so already) is to practise by doing the topical assessment books you can get at Popular Book Store. After your child has finished these assessment books, you will know precisely where his weak points are, drill on those topics until he is able to do those questions easily, then he can go on to the challenging questions. Once that is complete, you can now start the Exam papers from other schools.

Jumping into the exam papers without first reviewing the topics and finding where your child faces difficulty is not recommended as the child will lose confidence when he struggles with the exam papers.

My younger brother tried to solve some of the PSLE math questions that appeared on the Straits Times and came to the conclusion that, 'Either we have become dumber or the kids now have become much smarter'. That is saying a lot, my younger brother topped his year in Math and Science for 'A' levels and collected a prize from Lee Kuan Yew.

I have included the very helpful notes that my daughter's school has provided to all parents in the school. I hope they can help the parents really struggling with their kid's math, it shows exactly what the teachers expect from the pupils.

I think that when children treat math not so much as work, but the way we felt about school when we were young, as a wonderous challenge, I think they would be able learn and remember their work so much better.

Here's a pick-me-up Ted.com video you can show your kids about someone who really loves math.

Teaching your child to Ask for help when they need it is an effective learning strategy.

GOOD LUCK!

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