My Pals are Here (MPH) and Shaping Maths are the two most commonly used primary textbook series in Singapore. More than 20 countries are currently using the Singapore edition of either MPH or Shaping Maths. MPH takes the middle ability approach, while Shaping Maths targets the 20% high ability students. Some of the other primary math series used in Singapore (Updated Aug. 2008):
1. My Pals Are Here! Maths.
2. Shaping Maths.
3. Discover Maths.
4. New Syllabus Primary Mathematics.
Primary 1, 2, 3, 4 - approved by Singapore's Ministry of Education for use from 2007-2011
Primary 5 - approved by Singapore's Ministry of Education for use from 2008-2012
Primary 6 - approved by Singapore's Ministry of Education for use from 2009-2013
How many books/sets are used in our summer classes?
The Shaping Maths Series consists of two Coursebooks: A and B; and four Activity books: A Part 1, A Part 2, B Part 1 and B Part 2. Each student will be provided with all these 6 books.
Are our books the latest edition?
Yes. Shaping Maths 2nd edition will be used this year, as the 1st edition is no longer in circulation. Singapore's Ministry of Education provides an ATL (approved textbook list), where Shaping Maths is one of the four approved texbooks.
How does Singapore Math compare with other Math programs?
Singapore Math is a balance between drill and creative problem solving. Customers who have used other programs think that the Singapore approach moves along to more abstract math concepts in a more rational way and, depending on the student's pace, more quickly. Other positive feedback indicates that the Singapore approach encourages greater problem solving skills and creative thinking.
Does Singapore Math use the incremental, spiral or unit-style approach?
The Singapore Math curriculum does not conform strictly to any of the above approaches. The strong point of Singapore Math is the way basic concepts are presented. There is always more than one approach, and the workbooks are instrumental in making sure the information is generalized in the way desired. There are 'Practice' and 'Revision' that serve as unit tests at the ends of chapters and sections. There is a really effective mix of drill, word problems and mental calculation instruction connected to all important concepts. While typical Philippine curricula touch on a larger number of topics rather superficially, Singapore Math nails the core math curriculum in a way that better prepares students for higher math.
How is Math drilled in Singapore?
Individual teachers approach the process of oral drill and use of manipulatives differently. Some would even implement fun math games that would incorporate practice and drill. There is, however, great emphasis on homework and practice. The workbooks are intended to be completed by students without assistance.
How teacher-intensive is the program?
As with any program, effective supervision plays an important role.
Is there any part of Singapore Math which is independent learning?
The student is expected to do all the work in the workbooks independently.
Do we need to purchase additional products such as manipulatives for use with this curriculum?
Teachers in Singapore use simple manipulatives such as flash cards, charts and 3-dimensional objects. Our class is equipped with many manipulatives. In cases the manipulatives aren't available, then we will just ask the students to make their own cut-outs.
What grading scales are used in Singapore for primary level math?
Maximum points 100
A* 91 to 100
A 75 to 90
B 60 to 74
C 50 to 59 (passing grade)
D 35 to 49
E 20 to 34
U 0 to 19 (ungraded)
50% is the minimum passing mark for primary school math.
A* means getting a Distinction (91% and above).
How did Singapore rank amongst the world in the most recent 2007 TIMSS (Trends in International Math and Science Study) Report?
Grade 4 results:
- #1 - Hong Kong SAR - 607
- #2 - Singapore - 599
- #3 - Chinese Taipei - 576
- #4 - Japan - 568
- #5 - Kazakhstan - 549
Grade 8 results:
