Mathematics

Vision

Every staff and student to be an analytical and creative mathematical problem solver.

Goals

The goals of SMS(P) Mathematics Department are to guide students and teachers to exhibit the value of PACE.

• P ersevere when faced with a challenging problem
• A ctively seek to learn the concept and explore deeper
• C reatively and flexibly think of varied solutions to solve Mathematical problems
• E xcel in the subject area of Mathematics

In order to develop our staff and students towards values of PACE, SMS(P) adopts the use of PACE Strategy.

At SMS(P), we also strive to build confidence and foster interest in Mathematics through meaningful learning experiences. Maths comes ALIVE at St Margaret’s through Maths Trails, hands-on activities and games. 

1. Hands-on activities during daily lessons

CPA Approach

At Lower Primary, lessons are mainly designed using the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach to allow students to use real or physical objects for exploration, relating them to visual summary and eventually be able to represent them mentally. Through this approach, we aim to better support students’ learning of fundamental concepts as well as to infuse an element of fun to arouse students’ interest and desire to acquire mathematical skills and knowledge.

At Upper Primary, lessons are also planned using the CPA approach but a greater emphasis is placed on the thinking process rather than the final answer. Thus, we create more opportunities for students to be engaged in group work, active class discussions and presentations. Through these processes, we hope to nurture students who are able to use multiple ways to solve a question and to effectively communicate their solutions and ideas.

Working together to match the angles to its correct properties!

2. Math Recess Play Programme

Beyond the usual Mathematics lessons in classrooms, the school continues to cultivate students’ love for Mathematics through Math Recess Play.

Students are invited to play and enjoy the Mathematical games that focus on logical thinking skills and problem solving skills.  Through these activities, students get the opportunity to think out-of-the-box and test their strategies till they derive at the solution in a stress-free environment. These skills are essential and beneficial to children’s development.

Happy Pi Day!

Drawing using circle cut-outs!

Exploring and making circular objects using air clay

3. Journalling

At St Margaret’s, Math journalling is an integral part of our curriculum. Through journalling, students develop their mathematical thinking by reflecting on concepts, explaining their reasoning, and making sense of problem-solving strategies.

We believe that when students articulate their thoughts in writing, they deepen their understanding, build confidence, and strengthen their communication skills. Math journals provide opportunities for students to:

• Reflect on their learning and problem-solving processes
• Express their mathematical reasoning clearly
• Make connections between concepts
• Identify and correct misconceptions
• Develop metacognitive awareness

By making thinking visible, math journalling supports students in becoming more independent, thoughtful, and confident learners of mathematics!