From Arithmetic to Algebra: Variables, Word Problems, Fractions and the Rules

CONTENTS OF CURRICULUM UNIT 17.05.03

  1. Unit Guide
  1. Introduction and Rationale
  2. Polya’s Method
  3. A Brief History of Singapore Math
  4. Model Method
  5. Whole Group Discussion
  6. Taxonomy of Word Problems
  7. Activities
  8. Sample Collection of Problems 
  9. Bibliography
  10. Additional Resources for Teachers and Students
  11. Appendix A: Implementing District and National Standards
  12. Common Core Standards
  13. Endnotes

Understanding Problems: Using Bar Models with Common Core Taxonomies

Valerie J. Schwarz

Published September 2017

Tools for this Unit:

A Brief History of Singapore Math

In 1965 Singapore became an independent Republic. Recognizing that there are no resources in Singapore except the people, this young nation focused on education as a means to transform its economy. In a report authored by Dr. Goh Keng Swee, the Ministry of Education Study Team identified weaknesses in Singapore’s educational system. The findings led to the introduction of a New Education System (NES) in 1979. The Curriculum Development Institute of Singapore (CDIS) was established in 1980 and charged with creating a new math curriculum. In 1981, the first primary mathematics curriculum was introduced based on the concrete-pictorial-abstract approach. By 1983, the ‘model method’8 was introduced in primary 5 and 6 to address difficulties students had with word problems. Today the model method is first introduced to students in primary 1.9

Comments:

Grace Laz

March 29, 2021 at 6:40 am

Can bar method be applied to complex word problems?

Hi. I am an educator to my 11 year old daughter. We has been using Singaporean math books for her year 5 and came across this bar method. Do you think the bar method can be applied to complex word problems? Thank you.

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