5 Ways to Cope with Singapore Math
Posted by Steffen Carter on February 2nd, 2019
It is also an instrument for the development of all other sciences because sciences (especially physics) builds on mathematics. We are using mathematics in every facets of life, from taking a look at the speed we are driving at on the road, to looking at a price tag for our favorite piece of clothing, mathematics is manifested in everything you see around you and without it, everything is impossible. However, the majority of students have a general opinion that math is a difficult subject to understand and this may be a result inadequate guidance and being unable to understand and internalise the content, as well as to practice to master the skills. Excelling in Mathematics is not impossible but to do so, it takes a lot of time, dedication, persistence and perseverance.
So, here are the 5 ways a student can cope with the globally-known challenging Singapore math syllabus.
#1: STRENGTHEN THE CORE
It is a well-known fact that in order to excel in something, you need to be sure and steady when it comes to your foundation. Your foundation should be able to bear the weight of everything else you learn and build on. Students need to have internalised concepts completely and know their formulas at their fingertips. This initial stage is extremely difficult to get by for students because everything would be new and intimidating. You will have to make sure that you understand all concepts thoroughly, practice beginner-level math questions to test yourself on everything you have learnt to solidify your basics. This is absolutely essential to establish in order to proceed to the more advanced stages which require more skills sets.
#2: STAY MOTIVATED
Students easily lose confidence when they are unable to comprehend what's going on during lessons and when they are unable to solve Math questions in their classwork, homework, tests, etc. You should never be afraid to figure things out by trial and error, never restrict your thinking within a circle and think out of the box, and finally ask questions uninhibitedly. Continue motivating yourself to improve and develop yourself. It is okay to feel like you are lagging behind and it's okay to not understand a concept. What's most important is to work hard and clear your doubts as soon as possible!
#3: PRACTICE
We all know practice makes perfect and hence, always remember to keep it as a habit to practice a few questions every day. It will get you to think deeply, creatively, and practicing ensures that students become masters in the concepts they have learnt and it eliminates fear. It is an excellent way to keep your brain muscles working and the more you practice, the more confidence you will gain. The confidence will enable you to automatically perform well in examinations.
#4: CRITICAL THINKING
This is essential especially because Singapore math syllabus is constructed in a challenging manner which requires students to think in different angles and levels. Questions test students' ability to be creative in their thinking and to try different methods to derive a solution. This cannot happen overnight, it will take time and effort.
#5: MATH TUITION
The reason why Math home tutors are the best people who can guide is because they will take the necessary effort to understand what their students' weaknesses are and why they make the mistakes they make. Singapore math tutors, be it private tutors or tuition centre teachers, are all well aware of the syllabus and its requirements, as well as the kind of challenges students, are bound to face. They will imply specific teaching techniques to guide students in a customised manner. Math home tutors are great moral support as well and they will be a great pillar of strength!
Helen Hayes MacArthur, the famous and legendary American actress once said, "An expert was once a beginner" and she could not be more accurate. With proper guidance and moral support, students will automatically gain the confidence and they will excel in their academics. On the student's part, he or she needs to be hardworking and be proactive in clearing doubts!
