Education in Singapore is already quite competitive. However, the tempo is even higher for students preparing for Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). While students have strengths and weaknesses, most agree that extensive math formulas are tough. It also negatively affects their overall academic performance.
The challenge with abstract concepts in maths is that it requires students to visualize, understand, and provide evidence on how they reached their answers. Unfortunately, the entire process is interconnected.
The answer will be wrong if a student fails to visualize or understand the concept. Likewise, an examiner will only give full marks if the child correctly illustrates how they solved the math problem.
Maths enrichment classes are important because they offer students additional lessons and personalized training. The maths enrichment programs are designed to mimic what is expected of the students when undertaking their maths PSLE examination.
Best Math Enrichment Programs in Singapore
Math enrichment programs are structured in two primary ways.
- The child’s performance. The primary maths tuition appreciates that some students are naturally gifted to understand and excel in Maths. Similarly, some students struggle with maths concepts and calculations. Additionally, some students perform well in Math, but they have the potential to be even better.
- Math curriculum for different levels. For example, there are math enrichment Singapore programs for early learners, elementary, middle, and high school.
All the primary maths enrichment classes use activities that children aged 4 – 12 enjoy. This way, the enrichment classes incorporate the MOE curriculum, but the teaching is less conventional. Children learn through play, puzzles, and games.
The Maths programs;
- Set hurdles for students. This allows the maths tutors to assess a child’s progress from the moment they join the primary school maths tuition. It also helps the child appreciate that they can do well in maths, irrespective of their challenges.
- Group students according to their ability. This reduces pressure on students who feel overwhelmed when learning with students who are better at maths. Fortunately, as students improve at maths, they move to an advanced group.
- Give students a competitive advantage. Instead of focusing on memory, as is the case with traditional maths classes, children attending maths enrichment classes are equipped with problem-solving skills. They learn to use these skills to identify sets of related problems to help them solve a range of maths problems, including those they have not encountered.
- Train students to use creative methods to solve math problems. For example, students use games to remember how to solve specific problems. This eliminates the risk of forgetting, as is the case when students memorize a formula.
- Use physical and visual devices to get the attention of the students and get them to develop an interest in maths. Students may not always understand what they learn. When they participate in the problem-solving process, they will likely retain the information and excel in their maths.
Maths enrichment classes vary, but they share the same goal, helping students excel. There are several maths enrichment classes in Singapore available for students at different levels, so you get to choose one that will most likely influence your child’s interest in maths.