At EDS, math is about much more than numbers and formulas. It is an experience that helps students learn how to think, reason, and approach challenges with confidence.
Students develop persistence, curiosity, and confidence as they encounter new ideas. Whether solving a math problem, designing a science project, or navigating a real-life situation, the ability to think through problems matters.
This belief is one of the reasons Singapore Math is implemented from PreK through 8th grade. The approach creates a clear and consistent mathematical foundation as students move through the program and prepare for the challenging work of the Upper School.
Singapore Math is a globally respected approach to mathematics instruction that emphasizes deep understanding, clear reasoning, and thoughtful problem solving. Rather than rushing through procedures, students build a true understanding of how math works. Over time, they develop strong mathematical skills and the confidence to apply their thinking in new situations.
What Is Singapore Math?
Singapore Math is a research-based approach that prioritizes conceptual understanding before memorization. Instead of following a set of steps, students learn why mathematical ideas work.
This approach helps students become flexible thinkers who can apply what they know in new situations.
Key principles of Singapore Math include:
- Developing conceptual understanding before introducing algorithms
- Focusing on depth of learning rather than speed
- Exploring multiple problem-solving strategies
- Clearly explaining and justifying thinking
In Singapore Math classrooms, students talk through their reasoning, explore different approaches, and learn from mistakes. These habits build confidence, perseverance, and resilience.
In practice, learning often looks different from traditional math instruction. Instead of completing a worksheet of identical problems, students might discuss strategies with a partner, draw visual models, or explain their thinking to the class. Through thoughtful questioning, students uncover patterns and connections so that ideas make sense and stick.
Inside a Singapore Math Lesson
A typical lesson begins with a carefully chosen word problem that invites students to think and make sense of a situation.
Students solve problems in ways that feel natural to them. Some use manipulatives or visual models, while others move toward more abstract strategies. Students who finish quickly often deepen their understanding by representing or proving their thinking in new ways.
As students work, the teacher listens, observes, and identifies patterns in thinking. The focus is not just on arriving at an answer, but on understanding the process behind it.
Lessons then shift into small group and whole-class discussions, where students explain their reasoning, learn from one another, and refine their ideas. Often, one student’s strategy helps others see a new way forward.
Learning is reinforced through notes, guided practice, and independent work.
This cycle builds not only strong mathematical understanding, but also confidence, communication, and perseverance—skills that extend far beyond math.
A Strong Foundation: PreK–Kindergarten
In the early years, math learning grows through exploration, conversation, and hands-on experiences.
Students build number sense using manipulatives, stories, patterns, and real-world situations. They sort, compare, and begin to understand how numbers relate.
During these years, students:
- Develop an understanding of quantities and relationships
- Use mathematical language to explain their thinking
- Build confidence through exploration
These early experiences create a strong foundation for both academic success and confidence as learners.
Growing Understanding: Grades 1–3
In the primary grades, students follow the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) progression.
They begin with hands-on materials, move to visual models, and then to abstract symbols, building a clear mental picture of how math works.
Rather than memorizing steps, students represent problems, visualize relationships, and explain their thinking. They also discover that problems can be solved in more than one way, strengthening both understanding and flexibility.
Applying Strategy and Reasoning: Grades 4–5
In upper elementary, students apply their understanding to more complex problems.
They analyze situations, choose appropriate strategies, and justify their solutions.
Working through challenging problems in a supportive environment helps students build resilience and confidence—skills that transfer across all areas of learning.
Preparing for Higher-Level Math: Grades 6–8
By middle school, students have developed a strong conceptual foundation that allows them to approach more abstract mathematics with confidence.
Students focus on:
- Algebraic thinking and proportional reasoning
- Solving unfamiliar and non-routine problems
- Communicating ideas with clarity and precision
Because they understand how and why math works, students are well prepared for higher-level, college-preparatory mathematics.
Why Singapore Math Fits Our Mission
Singapore Math supports a student-centered approach that nurtures the growth of the whole child—mind, body, and spirit.
In the classroom, students are not only solving problems, but also learning how to think. They ask questions, make sense of ideas, and stay engaged through challenges, even when the work feels difficult.
Over time, students move from asking, “What steps do I follow?” to asking, “How can I make sense of this?”—a shift that builds both understanding and confidence.
The Outcome: Confident Mathematical Thinkers
By the end of Grade 8, students build strong mathematical understanding and see themselves as capable problem solvers who can approach new challenges with confidence.
Singapore Math is more than a curriculum. It reflects a commitment to helping students grow into thoughtful learners who are prepared to learn, lead, and solve problems in a complex world.
