Singapore Math Dimensions and Primary Info Page
The Singapore math method is a highly effective teaching approach originally developed by Singapore’s Ministry of Education in the 1980s for Singapore public schools.
The method has been widely adopted in various forms around the world over the past twenty years following our introduction of the curriculum to the U.S. in 1998.
The Singapore Math Method.
- The Singapore math method is focused on mastery, which is achieved through intentional sequencing of concepts.
- Some of the key features of the approach include the CPA (Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract) progression, number bonds, bar modeling, and mental math.
- Instead of pushing through rote memorization, students learn to think mathematically and rely on the depth of knowledge gained in previous lessons.
- An attitude that math is important and approachable is also essential. Students perform at a higher level when their potential for understanding and success is assumed.
- In typical U.S. math programs, students get a worked example, then solve problems that very closely follow that example, repeating all the same steps with different numbers. In Singapore math, students must think through concepts and apply them in new ways from the very start. Since they can’t rely on simple replication, students are pushed to greater engagement and broader thinking. In U.S. math programs, concepts and skills are more compartmentalized within and across grade levels than in Singapore math, where a strong sense of connectivity to past learning is woven throughout.
- Singapore math not only helps students become more successful problem solvers, it helps them gain a sense of confidence and resourcefulness because it insists on conceptual depth. This naturally prepares students to excel in more advanced math
Singapore Math Key Features
- CPA (Concrete Pictorial Abstract) Approach: Introduces concepts in a tangible way and progresses to increasing levels of abstraction.
- Number Bonds: Shows the part-whole relationship between numbers.
- Bar Modeling: Helps students visualize a range of math concepts, such as fractions, ratios, and percentages. Allows students to determine the knowns and unknowns in a given situation.
- Mental Math: Helps students develop number sense and flexibility in thinking about numbers.
Why choose Dimensions Math® PK–5?
- Dimensions Math PK–5 is SingaporeMath.com's flagship curriculum. It was created by their team of experts to provide a comprehensive, supported, and beautiful Singapore math experience.
- Cohesive PK–5 series, which continues through more advanced grades in the Dimensions Math 6–8 program.
- Substantial, ever-expanding teaching resources including video subscriptions and more.
- Vibrant illustration and clean design engages students and makes teaching easier.
- Excellent value and accessible pricing.
Sample Pages for Dimensions Math® PK–8 Samples
Scope & Sequence for: Dimensions Math® Grades PreK–5 and Dimensions Math® Grades 6–8
Dimensions Math Placement Tests for grades K through 5:
Singapore Math Dimensions does have placement tests for Grades 6-8. Instructors are advised to use the Practice section in the Workbooks for assessment purposes or create their own tests.
Why choose Primary Mathematics Grades 1-8?
- Primary Mathematics is the original, world-renowned Singapore Math curriculum. It put Singapore on the map of international math achievement over 20 years ago.
- Due to wide adoption over many years, there is ample support for the early editions of Primary Mathematics.
- Different editions align with specific standards:
- • Primary Mathematics 2022 Edition: Focuses on U.S. standards alignment and differentiation. Note: Content is entirely new, marks major departure from previous Primary Mathematics editions.
- • Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition: Almost identical to the original program from Singapore, but uses U.S. measurements and currency.
- • Primary Mathematics Standards Edition: Revised to meet the California Public School standards prior to Common Core.
- • Primary Mathematics Common Core Edition: Revised to more closely align with Common Core.
Singapore Primary Math Placement tests (Standards, US, and Common Core):
Scope & Sequence for: Earlybird Kindergarten and Primary Mathematics Standards Edition Grades K–6
Scope & Sequence for: Earlybird Kindergarten and Primary Mathematics Standards Edition Grades K–6
Singapore Primary Math Placement (2022 Edition)
Not sure which Singapore Math Edition is best for you? Compare the editions here.
Singapore Math is available in Canada through CanadianHomeEducation.com in Canadian prices and is shipped from a Canadian address. We look after the US/Canadian exchange rate and broker fees for you.