October 09, 2015
As we approach fall break, I continue to enjoy the Singapore approach to help our scholars understand mathematics. Singapore math utilizes a logical approach progressing from concrete to pictorial to abstract math. While not always easy, once scholars comprehend a skill, it’s a joy to see them proud of their accomplishment.
But to me, Singapore is more than just math. It provides a way for scholars to stretch their brains by taking skills they learn and applying them. It shows how and why a skill is the way it is then asks students to use that skill in various situations. When executed properly, students acquire a holistic approach to mathematics and begin to see patterns that overlap when they look at numbers. For example, equivalent ratios use the skills of factors and multiples, the coordinate plane is an extension of basic graphing, and fractions are another way of saying division.
I enjoy showing students how math applies to our daily lives. On a recent field trip, a student asked the time.
Me: “It’s 12:08. So how long until lunch at 12:30?”
The student paused to count.
Me: “What’s 12:08 close to?”
Student: “12:10.”
Me: “Ok, which is how long until lunch?”
Student: “About 20 minutes.”
Me: “Yes! See, you just used estimation. You just applied math in real life!”
The student just smiled and resumed her task. I’m sure she was thinking “leave it to Mrs. Oteng to bring up math on a field trip.” But I confess- that’s what I do!
In our society we use math on a daily basis. I believe part of my job as a math teacher is to both help our students learn mathematical skills and help them see the value in gaining an understanding of this subject. Singapore math is a great program. It helps our scholars become critical thinkers which is, of course, a skill they will use in all classes and in general throughout life.
Written by Stephanie Oteng, 5th and 6th Grade Math Teacher