5 Tricks to achieve the best results in Singapore Math


Singapore math is known to be one of the best in the world because of its high standard, quality and expectations of its students. According to a global study called ‘International Mathematics and Science Study (which is an achievement test set by policymakers and educators globally), Singapore students are the world's best in the subjects of mathematics and science. In this test, Primary 4 pupils and Secondary 2 students (179 primary schools and 167 secondary schools were included in the sample) topped the Mathematics test and the results are as shown below.
Being the top-ranking country in mathematics, it is certainly the reflection of the education system and the fact that it produces talented math students indeed.

It is certainly true that Math is a challenging subject to deal with in the Singapore education system. The syllabus and exam papers demand a lot from students and coping with the expectations is not an easy job. The reason why there is a huge emphasis on Mathematics is because of it is a prerequisite subject for many jobs on demand and should students perform well in it in their national examinations, they have high chances of having a strong career ahead of them.

Being unable to excel in Math is not just about the lack of understanding of concepts or not being able to assess the questions’ demands; it’s also about lack of confidence (which has to be addressed immediately). Some children may feel that they are lagging behind their peers and this might take a toll on their self-esteem and the lack of confidence in the subject might cause them to feel helpless and develop a hatred for it (which is pretty detrimental).

In order to excel in mathematics with confidence, there are some things that students can follow. So, here are 5 tricks to achieve the best Singapore mathematics results!

#1: ADMIT WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW

The first step to gain knowledge is to admit what you don’t know. Be confident and voice out your queries and that’s the only way help will come your way. It is essential to feel comfortable to be able to openly admit that you are unaware of something and that is actually a common trait amongst successful individuals. Never fear that people might judge you for your ignorance because being ignorant about your ignorance is the most dangerous zone to be in.

On the other hand, never let your ego get in the way. You might have performed well in a test but that doesn’t make you a genius. Being grounded is important and always be consistent with your effort because that is what will keep you on the right track in the long run.

#2: BUILD A STRONG BASE

Tutors ensure that their students have good clarity with regards to the basic concepts because everything else will build on top of that foundation. Big ideas are broken down into smaller concepts for easy understanding, and most importantly, real-life examples are used to illustrate the fundamental concepts and ideas. In the process of building the foundation, it is also the opportunity for teachers to bond with their students and asses students’ learning pace, capacity, etc. This will help with the progress in learning. Students will also feel much more comfortable with the more complex topics if their base is built strong.

#3: CRITICAL THINKING

It’s not easy but students have to get comfortable with it. By training to think critically to solve problems from a young age in Mathematics, it becomes second nature when given a problem to solve. It is almost an immediate response that starts off from reading to analyzing, hypothesizing, testing and finally figuring out the answer in a systemic manner. With constant practice through school assignments and examinations, students are trained to be masters in higher-order thinking.

#4: PRACTICE

Yes, practice makes perfect, and there’s no other way around it. This takes persistence and patience but the result of the due diligence can be seen. Singapore education system has made it clear that students need to be provided with various resources and avenues to practice and master the concepts in the subject. School tutors and home tutors also make sure that, that rule of thumb is followed at all times.

#5: STAY MOTIVATED

Nothing is the make or break and there is no need to get frustrated with a small failure. Confidence is absolutely essential to perform well in examinations because should a student lack confidence, that will be the biggest barrier to excelling in this subject. It is of paramount importance to keep in mind that hard work and consistency will yield success no matter what.

BOTTOM LINE

Singapore math may be extremely challenging and may be daunting, but the hard work will be all worth it. Even gold cannot be made into a beautiful piece of jewelry if it's not heated and beaten to be shaped. The process may be arduous but the result will bring you joy and happiness, and a sense of achievement.



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