Adding It Up: Staff Development for Educators’ Whitepaper Outlines Implementation Options for Singapore Math

New Approach Provides Rich Instruction Model; Supports Direction Outlined in New Common Core State Standards for Mathematics for More Conceptual, Hands-On Instruction

PETERBOROUGH, N.H.--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--For more than a decade, research studies of mathematics education in high-performing countries have concluded that the mathematics curriculum in the U.S. must become substantially more focused and coherent in order to improve mathematics achievement in this country. To support this effort, Staff Development for Educators (SDE) has published a whitepaper to assist school administrators in evaluating the implementation strategies for this next generation approach to elementary math instruction.

“The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics clearly call for a change from traditional instruction to the multi-dimensional instruction exemplified in Singapore Math”

Singapore Math refers to a collection of math teaching strategies common in elementary Singaporean classrooms. The formidable math system emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding prior to the teaching of procedures. It uses a powerful, hands-on, visual approach—progressing from concrete to pictorial to abstract—to introduce concepts, and it places a strong emphasis on number sense, place value, and problem solving.

“The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics clearly call for a change from traditional instruction to the multi-dimensional instruction exemplified in Singapore Math,” said SDE President, Gerald Hughes. “But securing and implementing the best math program that will both raise test scores, while building teachers’ confidence and competence in math, can sometimes be daunting. That’s why we created this clear, concise guide to help administrators evaluate their implementation options before committing financial resources to the program.”

SDE was the first professional development company to bring Singapore Math to the United States and the only company to offer independent, comprehensive Singapore Math training for classroom teachers. The free, downloadable whitepaper offers an at-a-glance overview of Singapore Math. Whether adopting a curriculum or thinking of supplementing; this guide outlines the pros and cons of four common methods for implementing Singapore Math. A copy can be obtained at http://www.sde.com/singapore-math.

“Improved classroom instruction is inextricably linked to improved student achievement. Progressive curricular offerings that elevate expectations and results, like Singapore Math, put renewed emphasis on teacher knowledge and skills,” said Hughes. “At SDE we are committed to helping teachers give every child the world-class instruction they need.”

To learn more about SDE’s professional development seminars, conferences, on-site consulting services and online learning programs, call 1-800-462-1478 or visit www.SDE.com.