If you've ever wondered why students in Singapore consistently top international math rankings, the answer often lies in one powerful approach: Singapore Math. This method is more than just a curriculum—it’s a philosophy of teaching math for understanding, not memorization. In this post, we’ll explore what makes Singapore Math so effective—and how Mathnasium of The Glebe helps children build strong math foundations using similar strategies.
Singapore Math is a teaching approach developed in Singapore in the 1980s. It uses a three-step learning process known as Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA). Students begin by learning concepts through tangible, hands-on materials (Concrete), then move to visual models like bar diagrams (Pictorial), and finally transition to solving problems using numbers and symbols (Abstract).
This progression allows students to fully grasp the "why" behind math, rather than simply memorizing procedures.
Here’s why educators around the world embrace this method:
Mastery over memorization – Students don’t move on until they’ve truly understood the concept.
Focus on word problems – Encourages logical thinking and real-world problem solving.
Visualization tools – Bar modeling teaches students to break down complex problems.
Depth over breadth – Fewer topics per year, taught in greater depth.
The result? Confident, capable math learners who can reason and apply skills to new situations.
At Mathnasium of The Glebe, we embrace many principles of Singapore Math, including the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach. However, we also recognize that every child learns differently. While CPA is highly effective, we don’t insist every student go through all three stages. For example, if a student demonstrates mastery going directly from Concrete to Abstract, there’s no need to slow them down with Pictorial representations.
In addition, Mathnasium enhances learning by using five key teaching approaches:
Tactile – Using physical objects like counters or number lines
Visual – Bar models, diagrams, charts, and visual aids
Verbal – Instructor-led discussions and explanations
Written – Step-by-step problem solving on paper
Mental – Developing internal thinking strategies and number sense
This multi-sensory instruction ensures that each student receives individualized support tailored to how they learn best.
Kyle Tan, the owner and Centre Director of Mathnasium of The Glebe, brings a unique blend of international expertise and local understanding. Born and educated in Singapore, Kyle grew up learning math through the Singapore Math method and later taught using this approach at a Mathnasium centre in Singapore.
Having lived in Canada for the past 20 years, Kyle understands the local curriculum and the challenges students here face. When needed, he combines his deep familiarity with Singapore Math and Mathnasium’s proven method to help students in Ottawa build strong foundations, boost confidence, and develop a lifelong love for math.
Want to help your child build confidence in math?
Schedule a free assessment and learn how we make math make sense.
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