Singapore Math
At Naples Classical Academy, we use Singapore Math to develop algebraic thinking and a deep undertaking of mathematical concepts to lay the foundation for advanced mathematical studies.
Methodology: K-7th Grade
The Singapore Math Program provides students with a strong conceptual foundation in basic mathematics. From the earliest grades, this program emphasizes concepts, mental math, and number sense while employing physical and graphical illustrations of underlying mathematical rules and phenomena.
The program begins with a basic concrete number sense toward abstract numeracy while building an appreciation for orderliness. Students are presented with mathematical skill building and problem solving in a way that helps them understand not simply when to use a particular equation—but why.
Methodology: 8-12th Grade
Singapore Math takes a conceptual approach to mathematical skill building and problem solving. Once students have formed algebraic thinking at the foundational level, they will progress to more advanced mathematical subjects, including geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and probability/statistics.
Topics are taught to a mastery level with detail and consistency, and the textbooks are designed to build a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts as opposed to simply offering definitions and formulas. This prepares students to excel in advanced mathematics studies. Regardless of their chosen pursuits in college and career, they will benefit from the principles and foundational knowledge they learn from Singapore Math.
Singapore Math Progression
We implement Singapore Math in a way that respects the learning pace of each student. Moving students on to higher levels of skills before they are ready is not an option, so the program will be employed at each student’s ability level. Ability-level groups will be determined at the beginning of each school year, and adjustments will be made on an as-needed basis in order to best equip each student with the language of numeracy.
Singapore Math Credentials
The Singapore Math curriculum is the U.S. edition of the English equivalent to the national mathematics curriculum used throughout the country of Singapore, and international math scores show very high student outcomes as a result of using this resource. Singapore is the world leader in mathematics achievement, according to at least two major longitudinal studies:
- According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), an international comparative study designed to measure achievement at the fourth and eighth grades, Singapore ranked in the top three countries in both 4th and 8th grades in every year the study was conducted (1995, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2018).
- The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), a triennial international survey that evaluates OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old-students, has also consistently ranked Singapore highest in mathematics. The PISA survey has ranked Singapore in the top two countries for mathematics in 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2018.
In addition, students using Singapore Math learn math concepts thoroughly, but they also master essential math skills more quickly, and it has been reported that by the end of sixth grade, students have mastered multiplication and division of fractions and are able to complete difficult multistep word problems comfortably, ensuring they are well prepared to complete Algebra 1 in middle school (Source: John Hoven and Barry Garelick, “Singapore Math: Simple or Complex?” Educational Leadership 65:3, November 2007).
Now Hiring a Head of School
Do you want to be a part of forming the next generation in wisdom and virtue? We are seeking a Head of School to lead us in fulfilling our mission: To train the minds and improve the hearts of young people through a classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in the principles of moral character and civic virtue.
