In school, we were taught that “two plus two plus two is six,” which is also the same as “two times three.” The surface area of a cube is side raised to the second then multiplied by six. When our multiplication skills have failed us, we would turn to the back cover of our notebooks and seek the help of the multiplication table.
With the way we were taught, we have developed a belief that math is all about abstract ideas and memorization. No wonder we had this aversion to solving for the x’s and y’s.
Its different with Singapore Math. Last week, me, together with my daughter and my sister had the chance to observe on how the Singapore Math is done.
One of the popular methods used in Singapore Math is the Model Approach. It allows the students to represent the given information in math problems through models. Numbers are represented by boxes and brackets and the positions of these boxes determine which operation to use.
It helps children to understand math concepts easily, thus motivating them to learn and to solve more difficult math problems.
I find this very effective especially for children who are having a hard time in Math. It allows the child to explore ways of finding out the answer for himself on a more fun way.
Schools around the world have taken notice of this effective strategy and are now implementing it in their classrooms, including the Philippines.
Here are some of the schools who are practicing the Singapore Math method: Ateneo de Manila University, Xavier School, Immaculate Conception Academy, Singapore School, Meridian International Learning Experience, MGC New Life Christian Academy, Victory Christian International School, Keys Grade School, PAREF Southridge School, Woodrose School, and Miriam College Grade School.
And there is also the Galileo Enrichment Learning Program which is the first enrichment program in the country to offer Singapore Math as part of its Math program. Enrolled students are given extensive enrichment exercises and activities that would further enhance their Math skills, making them a cut above the rest. The belief of the Singapore Math is to Teach Less, Learn More. The traditional authority-centered approach is transformed to a learner-centered approach.
To know more about this Learning program you can visit:
galileoenrichment.multiply.com
www.facebook.com/galileoenrichment
twitter.com/galileoenrich
In this world of innovation, it is only fitting to let go of traditional ways and think out of the box (or in this case, think around the boxes) in learning. Singapore Math has proven successful in unlocking the secrets to Math, demonstrating that Math is not to be feared.
