Singapore Math
Problem solving is the central focus of the Singapore Mathematics Curriculum Framework.
(Image Source: Math in Focus®)
Assessments in Math in Focus® measure three levels of knowledge:
- Type I items assess students’ grasp of concepts, skills, and procedures.
- Type II items assess students’ ability to demonstrate mathematical reasoning through statements, arguments, or justifications.
- Type III items assess students’ ability to demonstrate their understanding of problems with real-world contexts.
(Image Source: Math in Focus®)
The CPA Approach
This highly effective framework introduces concepts in a tangible way and progresses to increasing levels of abstraction.
Concrete
- Classroom activity
- Tangible items
- Manipulatives
Pictorial
- Students are shown a visual representation of the problem
- Picture
- Number bond
- Bar model
Abstract
- Students are then shown an equation of the problem
- In the upper grades, students will derive the formula or equation themselves