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Singapore Math 3: An Honest Review for Parents

As your child moves into the third grade, the math concepts start to get more challenging. You might be looking for a curriculum that not only teaches them the basics but also helps them truly understand the “why” behind the numbers. If so, you’ve likely heard of Singapore Math, a method famous for its problem-solving approach.

I’ve had the chance to use “Singapore Math 3” and want to share my honest thoughts. Is it the perfect tool to help your third grader excel in math? Let’s take a closer look.

What is the Singapore Math Approach?

Singapore Math isn’t just about worksheets and memorizing facts. It’s a method that focuses on deep conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. The goal is to build a solid foundation so that students can handle more complex math problems as they get older. The approach moves from concrete objects to pictorial representations, and finally to abstract concepts, which helps kids build a strong mental model for how numbers work.

A Deep Dive into “Singapore Math 3”

“Singapore Math 3” is specifically designed for third graders. It covers the essential topics they need to master, but it does so in a very specific, visual way.

Core Concepts Covered

The key concepts covered in this book include:

• Multiplication and division

• Fractions and decimals

• Measurement (including length, mass, and volume)

• Geometry and area

• Solving challenging word problems

The ‘Bar Model’ Method Explained

The most distinctive feature of this curriculum is the Bar Model method. It’s a visual tool that helps children solve complex word problems by drawing rectangular bars to represent the different parts of the problem. This process helps them visualize the relationships between numbers, making it easier to solve the problem logically rather than just guessing.

Is “Singapore Math 3” the Right Choice for Your Child?

If your child is a visual learner or struggles with abstract word problems, this curriculum is an excellent choice. It’s also great for children who are already strong in math and need a challenging curriculum that encourages them to think critically. However, if your child is used to traditional rote learning, there might be a small adjustment period.

Pros and Cons of the Curriculum

Pros:

• Conceptual Understanding: It helps children understand the “why” behind math, not just the “how.”

• Problem-Solving Skills: The focus on word problems helps build strong critical thinking.

• Strong Foundation: It sets a solid base for future math learning.

Cons:

• Requires Parent Involvement: For the method to be most effective, consistent parent involvement is crucial.

• Pace Can Vary: It might move a little quickly for some students, requiring extra practice time.

Tips for Using Singapore Math 3 Effectively

1. Embrace the Bar Model: Spend time with your child mastering the bar model method. It’s the key to the entire curriculum.

2. Encourage Explanations: Ask your child to explain their thinking process when solving a problem. This reinforces their understanding.

3. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice for a short time every day to make sure the new concepts stick.

Where to Buy Singapore Math 3

You can find this curriculum at major online retailers like Amazon and at most educational supply stores.