CLARIFICATION--Primary Mathematics comes in us edition, common core edition, and standards edition (which is based on California standards prior to common core) and then there's the newest dimensions--- all of these are made by Singaporemath which is the name of this company and can be found at Singaporemath.com. Now there's also Math in focus which is also using the Singapore approach but made instead by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. So these are 2 companies that sell the actual Singapore math approach! Felt that I needed to clarify this--- if you are in the US I highly recommend the Dimensions one. Those that can't get the editions from Singapore math should definitely consider the Singapore approach from Math in Focus! All the editions include the Singapore method of using number bonds, emphasising mental math and being fluid with moving numbers, and focusing on what Singapore is known for which is-- starting with concrete then pictorial and then abstract mathematical examples!
A couple of points, if I may. It was a disciple (Sandy Sanderson) of Jerry Mortensen from Idaho, who went to Singapore in the early 80s, and showed Singapore how to use base ten blocks to "make tens" and solve problems analytically. Singapore math is derivative of Mortensen Math. I trained teachers in Kuala Lumpur 13 years ago who had taught in Singapore and still had their kits of Mortensen blocks from back in the 80s they bought in Singapore. I have been teaching Mortensen Math myself since 1987. The C-P-A model used by Singapore is very much the Mortensen model of Build it, draw it, do notation, record the answer. However, the success of Singapore Math in Singapore is more due to the discipline they have in their schools and the family support pressuring the students to work and to succeed than to their pedagogy. It is from their values that they accrue their success not the method. MUS and C-R-A are also derivative of Mortensen Math. Steve Demme was a MM distributor prior to starting MUS.
Thank you for sharing that! As a math teacher, I am absolutely confident that this approach works for students struggling--- do you know how I know? Because I spent years trying to figure out why the strong math students were strong in math and couldn't figure out why the struggling students couldn't get math to click. My conclusion?The strong math students are wired to move numbers around fluidly while the struggling students aren't taught to do that so it doesn't click until they are taught how to move numbers around and then of course practicing it. I have tutored sooo many struggling students over the years and time and time again, I go in with this approach and things start to click. These struggling kids start to shift numbers like it's no ones business and they become non struggling students in math! It's amazing what a strong math foundation can do in the long run for students!!
Finally there is a video that is more in depth about Singapore Math.! Great video by the way :) I have a 5 year old son who loves math and wants to learn more. I have been thinking to either stay with The Good and the Beautiful Math 1 or go with Singapore Math.
We also have a walk through video for TGTB-- so feel free to check it out to get a better idea. They are TOTALLY different--- TGTB has tons of manipulatives and then reading passage throughout-- while Singapore is all about the thought process and not just telling them do this and do that so it's just a matter of what are you looking for. Thanks so much for watching!!
@@xiixiixo I would find the skills that they are lacking or struggling with then use those portions of this curriculum to teach them those concepts. Grab a whiteboard to make it more enjoyable for them and colored markers to use a different color for the different steps---- it helps a bit!
I couldn’t decide which one to use and decided to use math mammoth instead. They seem very similar and Maria Miller’s videos are free (no subscription needed)
They are similar in terms of rigor-- but the biggest difference is math mammoth is much more similar to a textbook. It has a lot of repetitive problems that aim for the same goal--- which is great is a child just needs repetition but loses a child interest that gets the concept because it's the amount is so much like a textbook.
@@TheBalancedMom I have a question about this! For 1st grade I see there is a teachers guide and a home instructors guide. Do you know if both of those contain the textbook?
@@TheBalancedMom thanks so much for replying! For my fourth grader I was going to buy the teacher’s guide and the workbook but for my first grader, I didn’t know if I could get away with just buying the workbook. Do you think I could get away with that for first grade or will I definitely need the textbook?
Depends on how comfortable you are with math, manipulatives and the first grade concepts! I'm really comfortable with improvising if my child needs help with a concept but that's the math teacher in me-- so it depends on your comfort
So my daughter struggles with math (short term memory and processing abstracts) but as I’ve researched I’ve realized she grasps it on the concrete and pictorial level, it’s just the abstract that takes her more time, but I don’t want to just have her do math the one way and repeat repeat repeat because it looks like it “works” on the surface. I’m not afraid to do extra and spend time with her on it. I just keep hearing in reviews that Singapore is for advanced or strong math students. As a former teacher and tutor, do you think that even kids who “struggle” or don’t “get math fast” would still do okay with this curriculum? My daughter is currently doing Masterbooks, which is gentle, but I feel like it’s not enough and she’s not retaining it.
I always recommend Singapore because of its solid numerical foundation--- my recommendation to a child who may be struggling with math is doing the US edition instead of dimensions just because the dimensions one has the whole challenge portion and it may feel discouraging to skip it each time. But the US edition is an excellent place (enough rigor even for students who aren't strong in math but also excellent explanations and visual aid!) Hope this helps!
Wow all this is great info. Im definitely going to look into it when my son takes this step on learning. Its so wild to think that in math some students to memorize and others have a way of counting up. But I never knew that the way of counting up is almost like Singapore math. Very interesting!! Im going to look into it for sure. 🥰🥰
Counting up is a very slow version of adding-- Singapore encourages more being fluid when using numbers (being comfortable with moving numbers around) to create 10s, 100s, etc. The only think they actually should memorize in the early grades is what makes 10 --- the pairs like 1 and 9...2 and 8... 3 and 7 but enough practice with them will have them know it. :) Thanks for watching!!
Thank you for this helpful video! This coming Fall will be our first year homeschooling. My children have been in public school in California (doing common core) my son will be in 4th and my daughter in 2ed. I decided on dimensions one grade level down (so 1 and 3) but now I am scared that it will be to hard! I am not mathematically inclined and learned the old fashioned way of just do the process and get the answer. Should I maybe use the Primary US instead of dimensions? Choosing math curriculum has definitely been the hardest for me!!!
Absolutely my pleasure! I think the fact that you chose 1 level down was very smart--- or doing the level they actually are in using the us edition may actually be much easier for you as an educator. The dimensions challenge problems can definitely be challenging and if you're not mathematically inclined, the last thing you want is to be frustrated as the teacher. Now I want to add that US edition Singapore is seriously still challenging enough-- it's an absolutely great curriculum because they are so focused on helping children become fluent with number instead of just doing the process!
Hi from Singapore and yeah, we actually used this. If you want to know how advanced the math can get, have your child do O level math which makes you really use your mind.
Yes we do "O" levels here in the Caribbean. All "O" level subjects are extremely tough because its a higher level of studies for one more year after normal high school. Its optional here though. You can skip it and go straight to university/ college. I skipped it. Too tough It's only available in the top 1% schools here.
@@shondastacy thanks so much for letting me know! And for taking the time to comment--- will definitely be checking it out! And please ignore the rude comment as some people don't know how to be respectful when they share their opinion
@@LooNciFeRx tough for one person may not be tough for another-- every person is different and not every child is strong in math. Some are amazing when it comes to grammar/LA others are more artistic-- and yet the beauty of it all is that all these gifts together is what makes our nation so diverse.
This is the Caribbean. It's optional here. If you dont want to do O or A levels. You can skip those two years and go straight to college. Different Countries, different requirements. I'm from the Caribbean, not Singapore. And the exams are not structured the same. Plz dont compare. We are on different continents
The common core is very similar to the US edition. The order of which things are taught is slightly different but the MAIN difference is the teacher guide. The teacher guide is a lot longer for each topic because they teach the same topic multiple ways. It makes the curriculum a little frustrating and it snuffs out the beauty of the Singapore way.
Good to hear that--- so to you're saying the teacher guide for the common core edition is a lot longer and teaches the same topic multiple times? I've only looked at that edition but I've used common core when I taught and it's super similar to the actual Singapore method.
@@TheBalancedMom exactly. I initially used common core and decided to see what the U.S. edition was all about. What I found was all the same material was in the common core plus additional. The common core method really expands on all the different ways a problem could be solved, where the U.S. edition picked a single method and used the "mental math approach" to solve the problem. Manipulating numbers into something that is familiar and then solving. I would recommend the U.S. edition personally. I feel like the U.S. edition covers common core in a more recognizable way. With common core too it is more concerned with you knowing all the methods instead of picking a method that works for the student and moving on. It becomes frustrating in the teachers manual because common core expresses multiple ways to solve a problem whereas the U.S. edition helps the student to really understand the logic behind the problem. Not a ton of difference between the two but to a math loving person I would recommend the U.S. edition.
Yes!! I don't recommend the common core edition and have recommend the US edition or their newest one dimensions! Thanks for sharing so much detail about it!!! And yes--- absolutely LOVE the fact that they teach you how to manipulate numbers regardless of the approach you end up using!!
My daughters are in the 5th grade and have been using EnvisionMath for the last 2 years. I will be homeschooling them beginning with 6th grade and have agonized over the math. I thought for awhile I would use Saxon but when 1 flipped through a 6/5 teacher's manual I bought used she immediately told me she doesn't do math like that. I don't want to have to rewire just to introduce them to a new curriculum so I looked at maybe just going with a homeschool version of EnvisionMath. Then I went a step further to see which text they would be using if they in public school next year. It's Math in Focus! I was so shocked because literally the middle school and the elementary school are right next door. But it seems like a leap between the 2 programs. My only hesitancy is that we lived overseas for their 3rd grade year and the school they attended used Singapore Math. I don't know which one. All I know is the child who recently pointed out how she doesn't do math the Saxon "way" just a few days ago STRUGGLED with Singapore. I was left feeling like I had not prepared her but as I've been researching the difference between mastery and spiral I realize that 3rd grade math assumed mastery that was not there. I was only going with saxon because it's spiral and helps with standardized tests but now I'm reconsidering based on her comments and the fact that the school district is using Math in Focus. If I went with one of these you've reviewed here do you think they would be at a disadvantage since they did not begin the program earlier?
I don't think you can go wrong with using Singapore as their method doesn't quite apply anymore for the older grades. It's their building blocks for the you get grades that makes them unique. Saxon is a solid curriculum also. I'm not sure what your child means when saying they don't do math that way as Saxon is the traditional way that has been taught to all of us. I wonder what particular problems she looked at. They are both solid curriculum. I just encourage Singapore because of it's solid foundation when it comes to numbers and moving them around (numerical literacy, number blocks, etc) Hope that helps!
@@TheBalancedMom thank you! I’m not sure if her teacher has taught her a different way to do certain math or if she has figured out a way that works for her. She was glancing at a Saxon teachers manual that showed how the problems should be worked out.
I wouldn't worry about how they show it---- I would just try to have her explain how she does it and take her approach. When she learns new concepts, you can rely on the teacher manual as needed to teach them to her. Hope that helps!
Just stumbled onto this vid. The Primary math text book cover is the same as the one I used in primary school (sans the us edition mark)! I graduated primary school 24 yrs ago. Interesting!
Yes it's pretty old probably why the company came out with the newest edition: Dimensions--- I do want to add that Singapore math hasn't changed much over the years though over in Singapore and it totally makes sense why that's the case because they score highest in math :) Thanks for stopping by!
@@TheBalancedMom I personally don't like math. But to this day, I still count mentally by grouping the numbers. I don't have to like it to be able to use it practically. ;)
I started my 4th grader with Singapore math just this year. We started with the new Primary Mathematics 2022 and have enjoyed it, but I am finding that the deeper we get into the curriculum, the more we need detailed instructions. I feel that the guide provided is a bit wordy and not too user-friendly. Are you familiar with this Singapore curriculum? I am thinking of switching to Dimensions as I have heard great things about the open and go format but am not sure how much the levels would match up.
Dimensions is amazing and yes, more open and go. I haven't checked out the new primary mathematics and that's because it wasn't written by Singapore which was very disappointing to find out. They seem to be selling the curriculum and endorsing it but they had no one from their team actually help in creating it so it's written by Cavendish (I think that's the name of the company that wrote it-- I would have to look it up in my chat with them to say the exact name of who wrote it)
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you so much for replying! It is my understanding that Dimensions was developed by Singapore Math, but that company is only a distributor of the primary versions. Primary 2022 is a complete reordering/rewrite of the original Primary US, same author, based on new updates currently being taught in Singapore schools. Both primary editions and Math in Focus were published by Marshall Cavendish Education. I only know from being in the FB group of one of the authors of both Math in Focus and the Primary 2022 guides. I am a newbie so decided to try Primary 2022 first, but the guide makes my brain hurt.😂 I would love to tune in if you ever got around to doing a review on it! Will see how the rest of the year goes and maybe give Dimensions a try later as I’d really prefer to stick with this method of teaching math.🙂
Yes, that's correct. To be more specific-- Singapore said that they co-wrote and were the original adapters of the 3 previous Primary Mathematics editions including the U.S. edition (in collaboration with Marshall Cavendish). However, they did not write this 2022 edition (that’s Marshall Cavendish only). Dimensions Math is written entirely by Singapore though (no collaboration with Marshall Cavendish). I'd definitely like to take a look at the newest edition! Maybe I'll consider switching my 3rd little to that edition for the next year school year so I can get a better idea between the the new version verses the older ones! We've used dimensions and US edition -- both very solid so I HOPE the new edition primary 2022 will not disappoint!
Hey! New homeschool mom - my 5yo absolutely loves math. I’m not loving TGTB and I’d like to switch to Singapore - but I’m unsure of which to choose between essentials, primary, and dimensions. Any reason to choose essentials over the other two listed?
You can't go wrong with either. You should know that primary doesn't cover negative numbers while dimensions does if that helps. It really comes down to the layout!
Thank you for this video. I have a first grader who we will be homeschooling for the first time this year. We aren’t sure if homeschooling will be a permanent thing so I want to choose the right program that will be easy for transition back to public school if we decide to do that. I feel he’s good with math but noticed he’s lacking in some areas. I’m wondering if we should start from the beginning but don’t want it to be too easy because he gets bored and then doesn’t want to do the work. Would you recommend the Primary math U.S. edition?
Hi! My pleasure-- I would recommend having him take the assessment to see where he places. You can choose to have him work on the dimensions Singapore or the US edition-- they are both very strong curriculums!
We are looking at switching from Math-U-See to Singapore Math. Presently, my second grader is working on multi-digit addition & subtraction. My fifth grader is just wrapping up multiplication. Neither have done any division as of yet. Wondering if you have any suggestions on which level to start at? Thank you for your great video!
They can take the placement test on their website to see where they place. If they barely place a grade below, you can start them on grade level and just fill the gaps when you see them! Hope that helps!
What do you think about the videos for dimensions? My son is using Primary mathematics and I’m thinking about dimension for my upcoming kindergarten. Do you feel like Dimensions is more gentle than primary?
I think the videos were good---- not great. The lack of excitement in teaching was definitely missing (but maybe just super passionate about math and want other kids to feel that excitment!!) I also didn't like the fact that the actual workbook problem weren't all recorded. So if a parent struggle with problem #5, it may not even have a video showing how to do it. If they would have recorded each problem I would have think that would be a really good resource for parents!! While the explanations for the concept are good for the children to use.
Hey .. my son goes to a school who uses math in focus. My problem here is. They have just given him the work book and not the text book student edition. I wanna buy the text book. Can you help or guide me where and how to buy this .the online version of the text book is available, i meed paper book
I would ask the school for the isbn number for the math in focus textbook that the teacher is using. Then find the book using the isbn number! Hope that helps you!!
Hi, this video was super helpful! But I have a question, while looking into Singapore math I noticed they have 3 “semesters” for each level. Is it necessary to get each semester for the level your child would be using?
Do you recommend Math in Focus over Primary Math? There is a pretty significant cost difference & I have heard some people say MIF isn’t as good for homeschoolers as it is for the classroom. What is your perspective?
Yea math in focus is geared more for classroom! I would recommend primary or dimensions! Dimensions is newer and improved + it has the online lessons also so that helps those who need the extra resource! Hope that helps!!
I don’t homeschool but my kid uses math in focus in school. I need to supplement something at home as he’s having difficulty in understanding the concept. So what will you recommend Singapore dimensions or math in focus?
You can do math in focus BUT if you want to save more then I would do dimensions. Math in focus is expensive and dimension can be used as a great tool to help fill the gaps until he's solid on the math concepts he's struggling with
I am a homeschool mom to kids ages: 9, 12, 13, 14. Nine year old does great with math. The 12 year old is autistic and both the 12 and 13 year are very delayed learners. The 13 year old is not mine, but is even more delayed than they are. We took the K placement test and they all missed questions on it. Do you think, Dimensions may be a good fit? We have yet to get past basic addition. Does Dimensions have good number sense teaching in the beginning?
It sure does!! Both us edition and dimensions start off very strong with a solid number sense!! They really encourage number bonds which is an excellent way to hello children understand numbers!
I have dyscalculia the curriculum they recommend. For homeschool students with the condition. Is Math U See and Teaching Textbooks. I hope this helps you make decision. I am 51 years old and still trying to improve. I use Learn Math Fast which is also. Another program they recommend for students with my disability. Even though I graduated from high school. Decades ago I still try and keep working on it.
Thank you this is very helpful. My daughter is 10 and we have been homeschooling since she was halfway through second grade (4th this year). She has dyslexia and I believe some dysgraphia and I have yet to find a curriculum that works well. She understands concepts like regrouping when subtracting and adding larger numbers. We have tried MUS, Right Start (she HATED the abacus said it was for babies) and I have heard many recommend Singapore for kids who struggle because of the strong number sense they develop. Any thoughts on either making the switch or choosing between Dimensions or Primary? I have many of the placement tests printed out to allow her to work through but I am so torn on which version.
Thanks for the details to help me better understand where your daughter is at! I honestly would start with dimensions --- and switch to US if you feel like she needs change. My kiddos and myself seem to struggle with the same layout and so I switch between them just to break it apart and make it different each year. Like my 1st grader is using dimensions while my 4th and 6th are doing the US edition. My 6th grader will switch to pre-algebra next year and I haven't decided if I'll be creating curriculum for her (since I was a high school math teacher) or if we'll continue with singapore. But our 4th grader will be switching to dimensions and 1st grader to US edition! We all like the change!!
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you. I never thought of that. I do like the 'look' of the colored dimensions pages better and with less on the page far less overwhelming for her. I definitely know I am going to go back a few levels to really provide her with a solid base and background. I have a minor in math so it is hard for me to see her struggle with it always came so easily to me.
@@meredithzuppo6100 yes! Totally understand that feeling! Even though I wasn't the best at math growing up-I have found my passion for math while teaching! The why's always blew me away and drew me to love math even more. Yes, the pages are definitely spaced nicer so can definitely help!! Neither book is colored though--- the textbooks are colored but not the actual workbooks which my kiddos haven't mind one but probably because there aren't pictures in them to need it to be colored! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!! I was Soo happy to find this curriculum when I did!!!!!
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you! I do have one more question since you have used both versions and different grades. Would you say that Dimensions and Primary US present the material in a similar fashion to the students? What Singapore should have for their practice pages is the same concept and how they are taught in both Dimensions and Primary if that makes sense. Curious if there are any major differences in their overall methodology.
@@meredithzuppo6100 they both present in the same way or maybe better to say, almost exactly the same. The biggest difference that I've noticed though--- is US edition does have a few more of the beefy problems in the older grades. The thought provoking (need help to get through it) type problems but honestly just a handful more! That can be a great thing if you want the children to get the exposure bad guide themt through it but I can also see how others can skip these if they don't have a math background and just think they are too much. I can send you an example of what I mean if you send me a pm on instagram (if you'd like to see what I mean).
Do you feel like one could be more independent for a child? We use primary mathematics and wondering if dimensions maybe my son could do independently for fourth grade. Please share your opinion. Thank you
It really depends on the child and how strong they are in math. They can do it independently once they are taught the lesson. Other students will pick it up without needing the lesson taught. There aren't example done for them in the workbook -- so it's not designed to be independently done however, some days the kids needs help with the lesson while other days, they don't and I just check it when they are finished. So it really depends.
Hello I am wanting to introduce this to my daughters they are in first and second grade, I printed out the placement test for the primary math 1b, 2a and 2b and it seems like the background knowledge they have is lacking in specific areas of the test and since I want them to have a solid foundation for the program I am not sure where I should start them, any suggestions? Should I just start them on their level or go back a bit, maybe start from the beginning, but then it might be to easy, I'm a little overwhelmed so any suggestions would help, thanks everyone
I would probably start with a semester before to make sure that they're understanding the concepts taught by Singapore the way they actually teach it! That way any gaps that are missing would be filled and they'll easily pick up on the Singapore way with that extra semester of practice! Thanks so much for watching! And if you haven't checked out our newest series, we are currently doing a full series on decluttering so feel free to check it out! :)
Because of its different thought process and way of doing math, would you discourage trying to transition an older child (5th grade) to Singapore math? I really love the idea of the solid foundation in math the Singapore method creates, however I’m nervous about switching things up so late in the game and my child getting too frustrated and overwhelmed. She is already not a huge fan of math and often struggles with it. Thanks!
Truthfully by 5th grade, the jump can cause some major frustration: here's why-- many of the problems are though provoking and simple repetitive solving problems so with ok it having the building blocks designed to tackle them, they can just turn into " word problems" that become frustrating for a student. In addition, one of the biggest reasons I recommend singaoire is because of it's strong number fluidity and number bonds that they teach at the beginning to encourage mental math-- with having missed that, many problems again will just be a typical problem solved the same way by a student instead of choosing better mental method ways. Hope that sheds some light on the situation!! This is just my professional opinion as a math teacher--- personally, I would still give it a try because when I help students with math, I always still incorporate the Singapore way! It just takes more time and patience to help them learn many of the skills so far out but personally, I think it's worth a try for the few dollars that a workbook costs.
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you, I really appreciate it. We have only been homeschooling her for going on two years. I’m trying to find the best math for her. I want her to have a math that breaks it down well and I like that Singapore gives the why behind the process. But I’m wondering if I’m a little too late to completely change her math process. She wants to work in an animal science field and so I know it’s important she has strong math skills. She gets frustrated easily with it though, and it is not my strong area either. Knowing this information, would you still recommend a Singapore program and if so which one? Should I start her in a lower level of Singapore to build and make sure she gets the Singapore methods? If not is there another program you think would be a better fit for her? Something more the traditional way she process math but where it breaks it down really well and gives a thorough, well rounded math education? Thank you again!
If you can start with 4th grade and teach the Singapore way that would be great HOWEVER, there are so many math curriculums out there that something like horizons or math you see can still be a good transition in this grade since they do a fine job at this grade.
Thank you so much for this video .. I have a question though plz 🙏my son is in second grader so he’ll be in third grade next semester .. but he is now learning at grade 3 &4 and will be almost grade 4 level next year or 5 .. what book of dimension do you think I should pick ? Does it goes with level exact as it’s mentioned ? Thank you again 🙏
My pleasure! You can do one of four things: You can have him start one semester behind since Singapore is really ahead of many other curriculum (so he would do 2B) when he starts 3rd grade. This would help to fill in any gaps that he may have. Secondly, you can also have your child take the placement test that they provide on their website. Thirdly, he can start on grade level since again this curriculum is more advanced Or lastly, If you're 100% certain that your child is ahead even with Singapore math then he can start one semester ahead. But again, please make sure that you are sure of that because it is challenging! Hope these options help!! Best of luck!
Thank you for your great video. I'm going to order Dimensions. :) Can you please verify your comment about NOT needing to order the textbook? I'm ordering Dimensions Grade 2...Do I truly NOT need the textbook if I'm ordering the Teacher Guide? Thank you!
Thanks for watching-- my pleasure! So the textbook is inside the teacher guide like a picture of each page. If you send me an email--- I'd be more than happy to send you what I mean. beabalancedmom@gmail.com I mean some prefer the textbook just because it's the full size while in the teacher guide it's smaller but if you're ok using it as a smaller size than you'll be fine and the truth is you'll be using the textbook a handful of times cause you'll be able to teach the concept using the basic part of the workbook if they're struggling with the concept to start with
I plan on covering Algebra 1 in 8th grade followed by geometry as a freshman, algebra 2/trig as a sophomore, precalc as a junior, and AP stats or AP calc as a senior. For now, I plan on using my own made curriculum for 8th through junior year unless I find something more suitable for each child.
Hello, thanks for the informative video. We currently use Right Start Math and I like it a lot. I am looking for something to supplement it so my daughter can do a workbook independently to support her learning. Right Start is also very focused on mental math so I think it would be compatible. Do you think there is a workbook from Singapore which would work well for this purpose? We are about halfway through level B of Right Start Math currently.
Right start math is a great curriculum!! I love that you are adding in the workbook to strengthen and reinforce what she's learning! The issue you'll find is that it won't go in order with right start math (not even positive if they are equivalent grade levels). But if you use it more as extra practice, I would encourage you to supplement with the us edition version!! Hope that helps!
I have an almost 8 year old and 5 year old. I want to use Singapore Math. What would you recommend to me as a homeschool mom? I'm not naturally math minded and we haven't had the best start to math. Where should I start and you feel with me not being math minded naturally I wouldn't do well teaching it?
I would HIGHLY recommend still going forth with Singapore math however I would go with the US edition (I explained it in more detail on your other comment). Hope that helps!
Hi! Thank you very much for your video. I have two questions- What is the role of manipulatives in this method? Do you have any experience with or thoughts about Math U See curriculum?
Role of the manipulatives in all the 3 methods I mentioned is to help the child get some hands on learning. They can be used to teach the lesson or used as a practice tool to emphasis a concept or can be skipped altogether if child has a great grasp of the concept and can verbalize their thoughts not just "do the process". I checked our math you see but have never used it. I think they do a good job with teaching the fundamentals of math based on what I saw-- I'm not sure how the rigor or thought provoking thinking of concepts grows as the child gets in higher levels. That's actually one of the things that draws me to Singapore -- is the thought provoking questions that really make a child use logic and concepts they've learned to apply themselves in solving it not just "here's how to do this" now go ahead and do it.
Hi, when you say ‘the common core edition’ are you referring to the Math in Focus one? I’m in the U.K., and I can’t get Primary Mathematics or Dimensions, but I can get Math in Focus. I hadn’t realised it was more costly but wondering now if your mention of ‘common core’ is for this book. Jess x
Hi Jessica, Excellent question-- I actually just added a pinned comment to clarify the editions-- feel free to read it for more details. To answer you-- The common core edition is still from primary mathematics. Since you mentioned not being able to get the editions from the singapore math company-- I would then highly recommend the math in focus one! Their teacher guide is absolutely great-- yes, more expensive but in my years of using it, it still totally worth it when you can't get the cheaper version to teach math using the Singapore approach! Hope that helps clarify! Please let me know if I can help with anything else and thanks so much for watching!
The Balanced Mom thank you for your reply. I wasn’t aware there was a teacher book :), so I’ll definitely look for that, I’ve got 1/4 way through 1A without it, ☺️, X
I definitely didn't use it at the beginning but noticed myself going to it in the older grades when I can't figure out a way to explain it at their level. Definitely will come in handy as they get older --- it also saves me TONS of time with checking their answers without having to do each problem which I know in the early years doing the problems takes like one second each so it's definitely not necessary to start
You said it’s possible for the child to do independently. Is that easier with a particular one? Is it just for a specific part or the entirety? I can’t do much teaching due to health, so I’m hoping to find one that my son can do in his own for the most part.
It starts off very independent (exception is reading the directions to a non reader). By 3rd grade, the child will need more help with the challenge problems. If you want even more independent, I would use the US edition of Singapore or masterbooks which is almost all in its own independent (small exceptions). Hope that helps!
In 7th, we do pre-algebra and in 8th we will be doing algebra. Currently, my 7th is using the prealgebra from Saxon but I can't say I'm head over heels for it yet--- it seems to be lacking in some areas that I need to add to it. I'm not sure if my next child will follow on this path. I will probably be switching and trying Singapores path
They said they are coming out with a new 2022 edition and all they told me is that it's different than the current edition. Speaking to them now to better understand what's coming out!
To answer you more specifically after talking to then--- dimensions is written by the company singapore math and the primary mathematics 2022 edition is 100 percent written by Marshall Cavendish. This is what they told me. It'll be different since they are written by 2 different companies-- I'll be making a video to explain the differences!
The Balanced Mom thanks so much! This is so confusing. Even rainbow resource has it listed as the new and improved singapore primary math. Looking forward to your video
@@TheBalancedMom Hi! Do you still plan to make a video on the 2022 edition? I'm doing US Primary at the moment with my 1st grader but am trying to decide whether to stick with Primary or switch to Dimensions or 2022. I need a better teacher's guide to help me teach the curriculum. I love Singapore but struggle with figuring out best how to teach the material, even using the teacher's guide, if that makes sense.
@@rebeccabennett3177 great question!! I won't be reviewing the 2022 edition but I'll be making a video just explain that Singapore did not write the actual curriculum. So if people try it, they should try it knowing that's its endorsed by Singapore but not actual lly written by Singapore math. I would give dimensions a try--- as the change can be just the thing you may need! We have tried both and I really like both methods!!
Thank you for such a clear and thorough presentatation! I'm curious about whether you've looked into Horizons Math or any other curriculum and what you think of it. Please keep the homeschool videos coming! Your soothing voice is a nice bonus to the informative content! 🙂
Hello and welcome!! Yes, definitely have tried, used, and checked out several math curriculum such as masterbooks, abeka, math mammoth, horizons, time4learning, shiller math, TGTB math, etc. We are currently on a huge decluttering + organizing series to kick off our new year! Then we will be right back to more math curriculum chit chats ;) and much much more! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment--- really appreciate it!!!
@@sableinfante7176 I typically recommend Singapore dimensions of you're math minded and feel ready for the challenge or US edition if you want your child to be strong in math but you may not necessarily be strong yourself. Hope that helps you make a better decision!
I am Brazillian, with a 6yo boy, who the constructive Method (which one schools adopted in Brazil), made a mess in my son's learning. I am a former lawyer (now I am Full time mom) I pray God to help me to teach my boy at home. Thank you Very much for your review.
I'm so sorry to hear that! The good part is since he's only 6-- he'll quickly catch on to a new method. It's much harder to teach them another method when they are set on a specific one for years. Thanks so much for watching!!!
@@LooNciFeRx my husband is a physician, I do not need to be a lawyer to have enough money to raise my kids. God helped me so much, I can stay home and educate the two little gifts God gave me. I need God for everything and He os amazing to me. I am extremally thankful and happy for the life he gave me.
As a math teacher who has actually worked with common core-- I'd like to share that common core are standards not a method in doing math. They are standards assigned to what each child should know for each grade. Singapore math is the actual way Singapore itself teaches math-- and they have the strongest math scores out there!
CLARIFICATION--Primary Mathematics comes in us edition, common core edition, and standards edition (which is based on California standards prior to common core) and then there's the newest dimensions--- all of these are made by Singaporemath which is the name of this company and can be found at Singaporemath.com.
Now there's also Math in focus which is also using the Singapore approach but made instead by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
So these are 2 companies that sell the actual Singapore math approach! Felt that I needed to clarify this--- if you are in the US I highly recommend the Dimensions one. Those that can't get the editions from Singapore math should definitely consider the Singapore approach from Math in Focus!
All the editions include the Singapore method of using number bonds, emphasising mental math and being fluid with moving numbers, and focusing on what Singapore is known for which is-- starting with concrete then pictorial and then abstract mathematical examples!
A couple of points, if I may. It was a disciple (Sandy Sanderson) of Jerry Mortensen from Idaho, who went to Singapore in the early 80s, and showed Singapore how to use base ten blocks to "make tens" and solve problems analytically. Singapore math is derivative of Mortensen Math. I trained teachers in Kuala Lumpur 13 years ago who had taught in Singapore and still had their kits of Mortensen blocks from back in the 80s they bought in Singapore. I have been teaching Mortensen Math myself since 1987. The C-P-A model used by Singapore is very much the Mortensen model of Build it, draw it, do notation, record the answer. However, the success of Singapore Math in Singapore is more due to the discipline they have in their schools and the family support pressuring the students to work and to succeed than to their pedagogy. It is from their values that they accrue their success not the method. MUS and C-R-A are also derivative of Mortensen Math. Steve Demme was a MM distributor prior to starting MUS.
Thank you for sharing that! As a math teacher, I am absolutely confident that this approach works for students struggling--- do you know how I know? Because I spent years trying to figure out why the strong math students were strong in math and couldn't figure out why the struggling students couldn't get math to click. My conclusion?The strong math students are wired to move numbers around fluidly while the struggling students aren't taught to do that so it doesn't click until they are taught how to move numbers around and then of course practicing it. I have tutored sooo many struggling students over the years and time and time again, I go in with this approach and things start to click. These struggling kids start to shift numbers like it's no ones business and they become non struggling students in math! It's amazing what a strong math foundation can do in the long run for students!!
Very helpful review!
Thanks and thanks for watching!
Finally there is a video that is more in depth about Singapore Math.! Great video by the way :) I have a 5 year old son who loves math and wants to learn more. I have been thinking to either stay with The Good and the Beautiful Math 1 or go with Singapore Math.
We also have a walk through video for TGTB-- so feel free to check it out to get a better idea. They are TOTALLY different--- TGTB has tons of manipulatives and then reading passage throughout-- while Singapore is all about the thought process and not just telling them do this and do that so it's just a matter of what are you looking for.
Thanks so much for watching!!
Hi, how would you use this to tutor someone?
@@xiixiixo I would find the skills that they are lacking or struggling with then use those portions of this curriculum to teach them those concepts. Grab a whiteboard to make it more enjoyable for them and colored markers to use a different color for the different steps---- it helps a bit!
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you
@@xiixiixo my pleasure!
I couldn’t decide which one to use and decided to use math mammoth instead. They seem very similar and Maria Miller’s videos are free (no subscription needed)
They are similar in terms of rigor-- but the biggest difference is math mammoth is much more similar to a textbook. It has a lot of repetitive problems that aim for the same goal--- which is great is a child just needs repetition but loses a child interest that gets the concept because it's the amount is so much like a textbook.
Thank you for the tip about skipping the Textbook on Dimensions, I hadn’t heard that yet in my search about Singapore Math
My pleasure! So glad that I can help!
@@TheBalancedMom I have a question about this! For 1st grade I see there is a teachers guide and a home instructors guide. Do you know if both of those contain the textbook?
The home instructors does not but it does have good activities for homeschooling parents. We've stopped using the textbook altogether this year.
@@TheBalancedMom thanks so much for replying! For my fourth grader I was going to buy the teacher’s guide and the workbook but for my first grader, I didn’t know if I could get away with just buying the workbook. Do you think I could get away with that for first grade or will I definitely need the textbook?
Depends on how comfortable you are with math, manipulatives and the first grade concepts! I'm really comfortable with improvising if my child needs help with a concept but that's the math teacher in me-- so it depends on your comfort
So my daughter struggles with math (short term memory and processing abstracts) but as I’ve researched I’ve realized she grasps it on the concrete and pictorial level, it’s just the abstract that takes her more time, but I don’t want to just have her do math the one way and repeat repeat repeat because it looks like it “works” on the surface. I’m not afraid to do extra and spend time with her on it. I just keep hearing in reviews that Singapore is for advanced or strong math students. As a former teacher and tutor, do you think that even kids who “struggle” or don’t “get math fast” would still do okay with this curriculum? My daughter is currently doing Masterbooks, which is gentle, but I feel like it’s not enough and she’s not retaining it.
I always recommend Singapore because of its solid numerical foundation--- my recommendation to a child who may be struggling with math is doing the US edition instead of dimensions just because the dimensions one has the whole challenge portion and it may feel discouraging to skip it each time. But the US edition is an excellent place (enough rigor even for students who aren't strong in math but also excellent explanations and visual aid!) Hope this helps!
Try our videos!
Super helpful thank you!!! Been looking to this for a while
Glad to hear that! :) My pleasure!
This was WONDERFUL! Thank you!
My pleasure!! Thanks for watching!
Wow all this is great info. Im definitely going to look into it when my son takes this step on learning. Its so wild to think that in math some students to memorize and others have a way of counting up. But I never knew that the way of counting up is almost like Singapore math. Very interesting!! Im going to look into it for sure. 🥰🥰
Counting up is a very slow version of adding-- Singapore encourages more being fluid when using numbers (being comfortable with moving numbers around) to create 10s, 100s, etc. The only think they actually should memorize in the early grades is what makes 10 --- the pairs like 1 and 9...2 and 8... 3 and 7 but enough practice with them will have them know it. :) Thanks for watching!!
You might enjoy our Singapore Math videos :)
Thank you for this review. I've been struggling with my daughter and I was thinking of doing Singapore math.
Absolutely! My pleasure--- hope it works for your daughter as well as it's been working for us!
@@TheBalancedMom now that you explained it...it seems like the game prodigy explains it in the same way.
Prodigy is a great tool to reinforce concepts!!!
Thank you for this helpful video! This coming Fall will be our first year homeschooling. My children have been in public school in California (doing common core) my son will be in 4th and my daughter in 2ed. I decided on dimensions one grade level down (so 1 and 3) but now I am scared that it will be to hard! I am not mathematically inclined and learned the old fashioned way of just do the process and get the answer. Should I maybe use the Primary US instead of dimensions? Choosing math curriculum has definitely been the hardest for me!!!
Absolutely my pleasure! I think the fact that you chose 1 level down was very smart--- or doing the level they actually are in using the us edition may actually be much easier for you as an educator. The dimensions challenge problems can definitely be challenging and if you're not mathematically inclined, the last thing you want is to be frustrated as the teacher. Now I want to add that US edition Singapore is seriously still challenging enough-- it's an absolutely great curriculum because they are so focused on helping children become fluent with number instead of just doing the process!
Thank you very much, very valuable info!
Absolutely! My pleasure!
Very helpful! Appreciate your hard work and also explaining it so clearly!
Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback-- really helps!
Hi from Singapore and yeah, we actually used this. If you want to know how advanced the math can get, have your child do O level math which makes you really use your mind.
I've never heard of that! Thanks for sharing!
Yes we do "O" levels here in the Caribbean. All "O" level subjects are extremely tough because its a higher level of studies for one more year after normal high school. Its optional here though. You can skip it and go straight to university/ college. I skipped it. Too tough
It's only available in the top 1% schools here.
@@shondastacy thanks so much for letting me know! And for taking the time to comment--- will definitely be checking it out! And please ignore the rude comment as some people don't know how to be respectful when they share their opinion
@@LooNciFeRx tough for one person may not be tough for another-- every person is different and not every child is strong in math. Some are amazing when it comes to grammar/LA others are more artistic-- and yet the beauty of it all is that all these gifts together is what makes our nation so diverse.
This is the Caribbean. It's optional here. If you dont want to do O or A levels. You can skip those two years and go straight to college. Different Countries, different requirements. I'm from the Caribbean, not Singapore. And the exams are not structured the same. Plz dont compare. We are on different continents
This was very helpful- thank you!
My pleasure
The common core is very similar to the US edition. The order of which things are taught is slightly different but the MAIN difference is the teacher guide. The teacher guide is a lot longer for each topic because they teach the same topic multiple ways. It makes the curriculum a little frustrating and it snuffs out the beauty of the Singapore way.
Good to hear that--- so to you're saying the teacher guide for the common core edition is a lot longer and teaches the same topic multiple times? I've only looked at that edition but I've used common core when I taught and it's super similar to the actual Singapore method.
@@TheBalancedMom exactly. I initially used common core and decided to see what the U.S. edition was all about. What I found was all the same material was in the common core plus additional. The common core method really expands on all the different ways a problem could be solved, where the U.S. edition picked a single method and used the "mental math approach" to solve the problem. Manipulating numbers into something that is familiar and then solving. I would recommend the U.S. edition personally. I feel like the U.S. edition covers common core in a more recognizable way. With common core too it is more concerned with you knowing all the methods instead of picking a method that works for the student and moving on. It becomes frustrating in the teachers manual because common core expresses multiple ways to solve a problem whereas the U.S. edition helps the student to really understand the logic behind the problem. Not a ton of difference between the two but to a math loving person I would recommend the U.S. edition.
Yes!! I don't recommend the common core edition and have recommend the US edition or their newest one dimensions! Thanks for sharing so much detail about it!!! And yes--- absolutely LOVE the fact that they teach you how to manipulate numbers regardless of the approach you end up using!!
My daughters are in the 5th grade and have been using EnvisionMath for the last 2 years. I will be homeschooling them beginning with 6th grade and have agonized over the math. I thought for awhile I would use Saxon but when 1 flipped through a 6/5 teacher's manual I bought used she immediately told me she doesn't do math like that. I don't want to have to rewire just to introduce them to a new curriculum so I looked at maybe just going with a homeschool version of EnvisionMath. Then I went a step further to see which text they would be using if they in public school next year. It's Math in Focus! I was so shocked because literally the middle school and the elementary school are right next door. But it seems like a leap between the 2 programs. My only hesitancy is that we lived overseas for their 3rd grade year and the school they attended used Singapore Math. I don't know which one. All I know is the child who recently pointed out how she doesn't do math the Saxon "way" just a few days ago STRUGGLED with Singapore. I was left feeling like I had not prepared her but as I've been researching the difference between mastery and spiral I realize that 3rd grade math assumed mastery that was not there. I was only going with saxon because it's spiral and helps with standardized tests but now I'm reconsidering based on her comments and the fact that the school district is using Math in Focus. If I went with one of these you've reviewed here do you think they would be at a disadvantage since they did not begin the program earlier?
I don't think you can go wrong with using Singapore as their method doesn't quite apply anymore for the older grades. It's their building blocks for the you get grades that makes them unique. Saxon is a solid curriculum also. I'm not sure what your child means when saying they don't do math that way as Saxon is the traditional way that has been taught to all of us. I wonder what particular problems she looked at. They are both solid curriculum. I just encourage Singapore because of it's solid foundation when it comes to numbers and moving them around (numerical literacy, number blocks, etc) Hope that helps!
@@TheBalancedMom thank you! I’m not sure if her teacher has taught her a different way to do certain math or if she has figured out a way that works for her. She was glancing at a Saxon teachers manual that showed how the problems should be worked out.
I wouldn't worry about how they show it---- I would just try to have her explain how she does it and take her approach. When she learns new concepts, you can rely on the teacher manual as needed to teach them to her. Hope that helps!
@@TheBalancedMom it does help. Thank you!
@@justjasmine79 great!! Let me know how it works out and what your decide to go with-- would love to hear back!!
Just stumbled onto this vid. The Primary math text book cover is the same as the one I used in primary school (sans the us edition mark)! I graduated primary school 24 yrs ago. Interesting!
Yes it's pretty old probably why the company came out with the newest edition: Dimensions--- I do want to add that Singapore math hasn't changed much over the years though over in Singapore and it totally makes sense why that's the case because they score highest in math :) Thanks for stopping by!
@@TheBalancedMom I personally don't like math. But to this day, I still count mentally by grouping the numbers. I don't have to like it to be able to use it practically. ;)
Yes!! Love hearing this!! And totally agree---- don't need to love just need to do it in an efficient and practical way! :)
@@TheBalancedMom wish u all the best in ur endeavours. At least we know math curriculum is bring done right on this tiny sunny island!
@@nerdska thanks! Same to you!
I started my 4th grader with Singapore math just this year. We started with the new Primary Mathematics 2022 and have enjoyed it, but I am finding that the deeper we get into the curriculum, the more we need detailed instructions. I feel that the guide provided is a bit wordy and not too user-friendly. Are you familiar with this Singapore curriculum? I am thinking of switching to Dimensions as I have heard great things about the open and go format but am not sure how much the levels would match up.
Dimensions is amazing and yes, more open and go. I haven't checked out the new primary mathematics and that's because it wasn't written by Singapore which was very disappointing to find out. They seem to be selling the curriculum and endorsing it but they had no one from their team actually help in creating it so it's written by Cavendish (I think that's the name of the company that wrote it-- I would have to look it up in my chat with them to say the exact name of who wrote it)
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you so much for replying! It is my understanding that Dimensions was developed by Singapore Math, but that company is only a distributor of the primary versions. Primary 2022 is a complete reordering/rewrite of the original Primary US, same author, based on new updates currently being taught in Singapore schools. Both primary editions and Math in Focus were published by Marshall Cavendish Education. I only know from being in the FB group of one of the authors of both Math in Focus and the Primary 2022 guides. I am a newbie so decided to try Primary 2022 first, but the guide makes my brain hurt.😂 I would love to tune in if you ever got around to doing a review on it! Will see how the rest of the year goes and maybe give Dimensions a try later as I’d really prefer to stick with this method of teaching math.🙂
Yes, that's correct. To be more specific-- Singapore said that they co-wrote and were the original adapters of the 3 previous Primary Mathematics editions including the U.S. edition (in collaboration with Marshall Cavendish). However, they did not write this 2022 edition (that’s Marshall Cavendish only). Dimensions Math is written entirely by Singapore though (no collaboration with Marshall Cavendish).
I'd definitely like to take a look at the newest edition! Maybe I'll consider switching my 3rd little to that edition for the next year school year so I can get a better idea between the the new version verses the older ones! We've used dimensions and US edition -- both very solid so I HOPE the new edition primary 2022 will not disappoint!
Are you suggesting to only get Dimensions and not the others? I see other UA-camrs unboxing all three so just want to make sure
Just dimensions alone is a full curriculum so yes! As a math teacher, it can stand alone without the other Singapore curriculums I shared
hi dear please do you have math in focus Singapore book chapters PDF ?
No, I do not.
Thank you!!!
My pleasure!
Hey there, do both the teacher's manual and the home instructors manual include the textbooks for Dimensions math?
I can't remember the home instructors manual but the teachers manual includes the textbook pictures.
Hey! New homeschool mom - my 5yo absolutely loves math. I’m not loving TGTB and I’d like to switch to Singapore - but I’m unsure of which to choose between essentials, primary, and dimensions. Any reason to choose essentials over the other two listed?
You can't go wrong with either. You should know that primary doesn't cover negative numbers while dimensions does if that helps. It really comes down to the layout!
Thank you for this video. I have a first grader who we will be homeschooling for the first time this year. We aren’t sure if homeschooling will be a permanent thing so I want to choose the right program that will be easy for transition back to public school if we decide to do that. I feel he’s good with math but noticed he’s lacking in some areas. I’m wondering if we should start from the beginning but don’t want it to be too easy because he gets bored and then doesn’t want to do the work. Would you recommend the Primary math U.S. edition?
Hi! My pleasure-- I would recommend having him take the assessment to see where he places. You can choose to have him work on the dimensions Singapore or the US edition-- they are both very strong curriculums!
We are looking at switching from Math-U-See to Singapore Math. Presently, my second grader is working on multi-digit addition & subtraction. My fifth grader is just wrapping up multiplication. Neither have done any division as of yet. Wondering if you have any suggestions on which level to start at? Thank you for your great video!
They can take the placement test on their website to see where they place. If they barely place a grade below, you can start them on grade level and just fill the gaps when you see them! Hope that helps!
What do you think about the videos for dimensions? My son is using Primary mathematics and I’m thinking about dimension for my upcoming kindergarten. Do you feel like Dimensions is more gentle than primary?
I think the videos were good---- not great. The lack of excitement in teaching was definitely missing (but maybe just super passionate about math and want other kids to feel that excitment!!)
I also didn't like the fact that the actual workbook problem weren't all recorded. So if a parent struggle with problem #5, it may not even have a video showing how to do it. If they would have recorded each problem I would have think that would be a really good resource for parents!! While the explanations for the concept are good for the children to use.
Hey .. my son goes to a school who uses math in focus. My problem here is. They have just given him the work book and not the text book student edition. I wanna buy the text book. Can you help or guide me where and how to buy this .the online version of the text book is available, i meed paper book
I would ask the school for the isbn number for the math in focus textbook that the teacher is using. Then find the book using the isbn number! Hope that helps you!!
Hi, this video was super helpful! But I have a question, while looking into Singapore math I noticed they have 3 “semesters” for each level.
Is it necessary to get each semester for the level your child would be using?
There are only 2 semesters. There is book A for semester 1 and book B for semester 2 and each grade has 2 semesters.
Do you recommend Math in Focus over Primary Math? There is a pretty significant cost difference & I have heard some people say MIF isn’t as good for homeschoolers as it is for the classroom. What is your perspective?
Yea math in focus is geared more for classroom! I would recommend primary or dimensions! Dimensions is newer and improved + it has the online lessons also so that helps those who need the extra resource! Hope that helps!!
@@TheBalancedMom where do I find the online lessons for dimensions?
@@tharareinitz2113 on their website--- it's called dimensions math at home
I don’t homeschool but my kid uses math in focus in school. I need to supplement something at home as he’s having difficulty in understanding the concept. So what will you recommend Singapore dimensions or math in focus?
You can do math in focus BUT if you want to save more then I would do dimensions. Math in focus is expensive and dimension can be used as a great tool to help fill the gaps until he's solid on the math concepts he's struggling with
@@TheBalancedMom thank you
Absolutely!
I am a homeschool mom to kids ages: 9, 12, 13, 14. Nine year old does great with math. The 12 year old is autistic and both the 12 and 13 year are very delayed learners. The 13 year old is not mine, but is even more delayed than they are. We took the K placement test and they all missed questions on it. Do you think, Dimensions may be a good fit? We have yet to get past basic addition. Does Dimensions have good number sense teaching in the beginning?
It sure does!! Both us edition and dimensions start off very strong with a solid number sense!! They really encourage number bonds which is an excellent way to hello children understand numbers!
@@TheBalancedMom Would it be good for someone with Dyscalculia?
Yes as it does an excellent job of teaching the foundations of arithmetic operations!
I have dyscalculia the curriculum they recommend. For homeschool students with the condition. Is Math U See and Teaching Textbooks. I hope this helps you make decision. I am 51 years old and still trying to improve. I use Learn Math Fast which is also. Another program they recommend for students with my disability. Even though I graduated from high school. Decades ago I still try and keep working on it.
@angelaschaefer5883 thanks for sharing!
Thank you this is very helpful. My daughter is 10 and we have been homeschooling since she was halfway through second grade (4th this year). She has dyslexia and I believe some dysgraphia and I have yet to find a curriculum that works well. She understands concepts like regrouping when subtracting and adding larger numbers. We have tried MUS, Right Start (she HATED the abacus said it was for babies) and I have heard many recommend Singapore for kids who struggle because of the strong number sense they develop. Any thoughts on either making the switch or choosing between Dimensions or Primary? I have many of the placement tests printed out to allow her to work through but I am so torn on which version.
Thanks for the details to help me better understand where your daughter is at! I honestly would start with dimensions --- and switch to US if you feel like she needs change. My kiddos and myself seem to struggle with the same layout and so I switch between them just to break it apart and make it different each year. Like my 1st grader is using dimensions while my 4th and 6th are doing the US edition. My 6th grader will switch to pre-algebra next year and I haven't decided if I'll be creating curriculum for her (since I was a high school math teacher) or if we'll continue with singapore. But our 4th grader will be switching to dimensions and 1st grader to US edition! We all like the change!!
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you. I never thought of that. I do like the 'look' of the colored dimensions pages better and with less on the page far less overwhelming for her. I definitely know I am going to go back a few levels to really provide her with a solid base and background. I have a minor in math so it is hard for me to see her struggle with it always came so easily to me.
@@meredithzuppo6100 yes! Totally understand that feeling! Even though I wasn't the best at math growing up-I have found my passion for math while teaching! The why's always blew me away and drew me to love math even more.
Yes, the pages are definitely spaced nicer so can definitely help!! Neither book is colored though--- the textbooks are colored but not the actual workbooks which my kiddos haven't mind one but probably because there aren't pictures in them to need it to be colored! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!! I was Soo happy to find this curriculum when I did!!!!!
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you! I do have one more question since you have used both versions and different grades. Would you say that Dimensions and Primary US present the material in a similar fashion to the students? What Singapore should have for their practice pages is the same concept and how they are taught in both Dimensions and Primary if that makes sense. Curious if there are any major differences in their overall methodology.
@@meredithzuppo6100 they both present in the same way or maybe better to say, almost exactly the same. The biggest difference that I've noticed though--- is US edition does have a few more of the beefy problems in the older grades. The thought provoking (need help to get through it) type problems but honestly just a handful more! That can be a great thing if you want the children to get the exposure bad guide themt through it but I can also see how others can skip these if they don't have a math background and just think they are too much. I can send you an example of what I mean if you send me a pm on instagram (if you'd like to see what I mean).
Do you feel like one could be more independent for a child? We use primary mathematics and wondering if dimensions maybe my son could do independently for fourth grade. Please share your opinion. Thank you
It really depends on the child and how strong they are in math. They can do it independently once they are taught the lesson. Other students will pick it up without needing the lesson taught. There aren't example done for them in the workbook -- so it's not designed to be independently done however, some days the kids needs help with the lesson while other days, they don't and I just check it when they are finished. So it really depends.
What about the standards edition ?
What about it? Each version is based on different standards but they are a very solid curriculum
Hello I am wanting to introduce this to my daughters they are in first and second grade, I printed out the placement test for the primary math 1b, 2a and 2b and it seems like the background knowledge they have is lacking in specific areas of the test and since I want them to have a solid foundation for the program I am not sure where I should start them, any suggestions?
Should I just start them on their level or go back a bit, maybe start from the beginning, but then it might be to easy, I'm a little overwhelmed so any suggestions would help, thanks everyone
I would probably start with a semester before to make sure that they're understanding the concepts taught by Singapore the way they actually teach it! That way any gaps that are missing would be filled and they'll easily pick up on the Singapore way with that extra semester of practice! Thanks so much for watching! And if you haven't checked out our newest series, we are currently doing a full series on decluttering so feel free to check it out! :)
Because of its different thought process and way of doing math, would you discourage trying to transition an older child (5th grade) to Singapore math? I really love the idea of the solid foundation in math the Singapore method creates, however I’m nervous about switching things up so late in the game and my child getting too frustrated and overwhelmed. She is already not a huge fan of math and often struggles with it. Thanks!
Truthfully by 5th grade, the jump can cause some major frustration: here's why-- many of the problems are though provoking and simple repetitive solving problems so with ok it having the building blocks designed to tackle them, they can just turn into " word problems" that become frustrating for a student. In addition, one of the biggest reasons I recommend singaoire is because of it's strong number fluidity and number bonds that they teach at the beginning to encourage mental math-- with having missed that, many problems again will just be a typical problem solved the same way by a student instead of choosing better mental method ways. Hope that sheds some light on the situation!! This is just my professional opinion as a math teacher--- personally, I would still give it a try because when I help students with math, I always still incorporate the Singapore way! It just takes more time and patience to help them learn many of the skills so far out but personally, I think it's worth a try for the few dollars that a workbook costs.
@@TheBalancedMom Thank you, I really appreciate it. We have only been homeschooling her for going on two years. I’m trying to find the best math for her. I want her to have a math that breaks it down well and I like that Singapore gives the why behind the process. But I’m wondering if I’m a little too late to completely change her math process. She wants to work in an animal science field and so I know it’s important she has strong math skills. She gets frustrated easily with it though, and it is not my strong area either. Knowing this information, would you still recommend a Singapore program and if so which one? Should I start her in a lower level of Singapore to build and make sure she gets the Singapore methods? If not is there another program you think would be a better fit for her? Something more the traditional way she process math but where it breaks it down really well and gives a thorough, well rounded math education? Thank you again!
If you can start with 4th grade and teach the Singapore way that would be great HOWEVER, there are so many math curriculums out there that something like horizons or math you see can still be a good transition in this grade since they do a fine job at this grade.
Thank you so much for this video .. I have a question though plz 🙏my son is in second grader so he’ll be in third grade next semester .. but he is now learning at grade 3 &4 and will be almost grade 4 level next year or 5 .. what book of dimension do you think I should pick ? Does it goes with level exact as it’s mentioned ? Thank you again 🙏
My pleasure! You can do one of four things: You can have him start one semester behind since Singapore is really ahead of many other curriculum (so he would do 2B) when he starts 3rd grade. This would help to fill in any gaps that he may have.
Secondly, you can also have your child take the placement test that they provide on their website.
Thirdly, he can start on grade level since again this curriculum is more advanced
Or lastly, If you're 100% certain that your child is ahead even with Singapore math then he can start one semester ahead. But again, please make sure that you are sure of that because it is challenging! Hope these options help!! Best of luck!
Thank you for your great video. I'm going to order Dimensions. :) Can you please verify your comment about NOT needing to order the textbook? I'm ordering Dimensions Grade 2...Do I truly NOT need the textbook if I'm ordering the Teacher Guide? Thank you!
Thanks for watching-- my pleasure! So the textbook is inside the teacher guide like a picture of each page. If you send me an email--- I'd be more than happy to send you what I mean. beabalancedmom@gmail.com
I mean some prefer the textbook just because it's the full size while in the teacher guide it's smaller but if you're ok using it as a smaller size than you'll be fine and the truth is you'll be using the textbook a handful of times cause you'll be able to teach the concept using the basic part of the workbook if they're struggling with the concept to start with
if you use Singapore mathWhat do you use after 8th grade?
I plan on covering Algebra 1 in 8th grade followed by geometry as a freshman, algebra 2/trig as a sophomore, precalc as a junior, and AP stats or AP calc as a senior. For now, I plan on using my own made curriculum for 8th through junior year unless I find something more suitable for each child.
Hello, thanks for the informative video. We currently use Right Start Math and I like it a lot. I am looking for something to supplement it so my daughter can do a workbook independently to support her learning. Right Start is also very focused on mental math so I think it would be compatible. Do you think there is a workbook from Singapore which would work well for this purpose? We are about halfway through level B of Right Start Math currently.
Right start math is a great curriculum!! I love that you are adding in the workbook to strengthen and reinforce what she's learning! The issue you'll find is that it won't go in order with right start math (not even positive if they are equivalent grade levels). But if you use it more as extra practice, I would encourage you to supplement with the us edition version!! Hope that helps!
Thank you! Which Singapore product would you suggest we try for this purpose?
Oh I just saw, you said the US Edition. Thank you!
Yes!! Us edition would be a great fit!!
@@TheBalancedMom May I ask why you suggested the US edition over the newer ones?
I have an almost 8 year old and 5 year old. I want to use Singapore Math. What would you recommend to me as a homeschool mom? I'm not naturally math minded and we haven't had the best start to math. Where should I start and you feel with me not being math minded naturally I wouldn't do well teaching it?
I would HIGHLY recommend still going forth with Singapore math however I would go with the US edition (I explained it in more detail on your other comment). Hope that helps!
Singaporemathlive.com has instructional videos that the parent can watch and then teach their child. It's work relearning math, but it's worth it.
@@Sixdays_aweek yes! And dimensions also has videos to help better explain most of the problems
Hi! Thank you very much for your video. I have two questions-
What is the role of manipulatives in this method?
Do you have any experience with or thoughts about Math U See curriculum?
Role of the manipulatives in all the 3 methods I mentioned is to help the child get some hands on learning. They can be used to teach the lesson or used as a practice tool to emphasis a concept or can be skipped altogether if child has a great grasp of the concept and can verbalize their thoughts not just "do the process".
I checked our math you see but have never used it. I think they do a good job with teaching the fundamentals of math based on what I saw-- I'm not sure how the rigor or thought provoking thinking of concepts grows as the child gets in higher levels. That's actually one of the things that draws me to Singapore -- is the thought provoking questions that really make a child use logic and concepts they've learned to apply themselves in solving it not just "here's how to do this" now go ahead and do it.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights!
Absolutely, my pleasure!!!
Hi, when you say ‘the common core edition’ are you referring to the Math in Focus one? I’m in the U.K., and I can’t get Primary Mathematics or Dimensions, but I can get Math in Focus. I hadn’t realised it was more costly but wondering now if your mention of ‘common core’ is for this book. Jess x
Hi Jessica,
Excellent question-- I actually just added a pinned comment to clarify the editions-- feel free to read it for more details.
To answer you-- The common core edition is still from primary mathematics. Since you mentioned not being able to get the editions from the singapore math company-- I would then highly recommend the math in focus one! Their teacher guide is absolutely great-- yes, more expensive but in my years of using it, it still totally worth it when you can't get the cheaper version to teach math using the Singapore approach! Hope that helps clarify! Please let me know if I can help with anything else and thanks so much for watching!
The Balanced Mom thank you for your reply. I wasn’t aware there was a teacher book :), so I’ll definitely look for that, I’ve got 1/4 way through 1A without it, ☺️, X
I definitely didn't use it at the beginning but noticed myself going to it in the older grades when I can't figure out a way to explain it at their level. Definitely will come in handy as they get older --- it also saves me TONS of time with checking their answers without having to do each problem which I know in the early years doing the problems takes like one second each so it's definitely not necessary to start
The Balanced Mom thank you, I totally agree x
You said it’s possible for the child to do independently. Is that easier with a particular one? Is it just for a specific part or the entirety? I can’t do much teaching due to health, so I’m hoping to find one that my son can do in his own for the most part.
It starts off very independent (exception is reading the directions to a non reader). By 3rd grade, the child will need more help with the challenge problems. If you want even more independent, I would use the US edition of Singapore or masterbooks which is almost all in its own independent (small exceptions). Hope that helps!
@@TheBalancedMom thank you!
My pleasure!
Is there another even newer edition now?
Yes--- the one written by the other company but sold under Singapore (however not written by Singapore)
@@TheBalancedMom have you reviewed that one or do you suggest sticking with the ones written by Singapore?
No I haven't -- not yet and I'm not sure if I will be
You have any info/insight on the 7-8 grade levels? Trying to figure out where to go after primary 6?
In 7th, we do pre-algebra and in 8th we will be doing algebra. Currently, my 7th is using the prealgebra from Saxon but I can't say I'm head over heels for it yet--- it seems to be lacking in some areas that I need to add to it. I'm not sure if my next child will follow on this path. I will probably be switching and trying Singapores path
I'd also like to add-- you can jump to dimensions for 6-8 or even for 7th and 8th as their curriculum is sooo strong.
Thank you!!
Absolutely!!
What is the difference between dimensions and the new singapore primary 2022?
They said they are coming out with a new 2022 edition and all they told me is that it's different than the current edition. Speaking to them now to better understand what's coming out!
To answer you more specifically after talking to then--- dimensions is written by the company singapore math and the primary mathematics 2022 edition is 100 percent written by Marshall Cavendish. This is what they told me. It'll be different since they are written by 2 different companies-- I'll be making a video to explain the differences!
The Balanced Mom thanks so much! This is so confusing. Even rainbow resource has it listed as the new and improved singapore primary math. Looking forward to your video
@@TheBalancedMom Hi! Do you still plan to make a video on the 2022 edition? I'm doing US Primary at the moment with my 1st grader but am trying to decide whether to stick with Primary or switch to Dimensions or 2022. I need a better teacher's guide to help me teach the curriculum. I love Singapore but struggle with figuring out best how to teach the material, even using the teacher's guide, if that makes sense.
@@rebeccabennett3177 great question!! I won't be reviewing the 2022 edition but I'll be making a video just explain that Singapore did not write the actual curriculum. So if people try it, they should try it knowing that's its endorsed by Singapore but not actual lly written by Singapore math. I would give dimensions a try--- as the change can be just the thing you may need! We have tried both and I really like both methods!!
How can I get copy of these books in India?
I'm not fully sure since we're in the US. I assume you can order it from their website and pay international shipping fees?
THAAAAANK YOOOOU! Their website is the least informative I've come upon.
Absolutely my pleasure! It was very hard for me also since they have sooo many options!!
Thank you for such a clear and thorough presentatation! I'm curious about whether you've looked into Horizons Math or any other curriculum and what you think of it.
Please keep the homeschool videos coming! Your soothing voice is a nice bonus to the informative content! 🙂
Hello and welcome!! Yes, definitely have tried, used, and checked out several math curriculum such as masterbooks, abeka, math mammoth, horizons, time4learning, shiller math, TGTB math, etc. We are currently on a huge decluttering + organizing series to kick off our new year! Then we will be right back to more math curriculum chit chats ;) and much much more! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment--- really appreciate it!!!
@@TheBalancedMom I'm looking forward to all the math chit chats! 😄
Me too! :)
@@TheBalancedMom of all these curriculums which do you recommend?
@@sableinfante7176 I typically recommend Singapore dimensions of you're math minded and feel ready for the challenge or US edition if you want your child to be strong in math but you may not necessarily be strong yourself. Hope that helps you make a better decision!
I am Brazillian, with a 6yo boy, who the constructive Method (which one schools adopted in Brazil), made a mess in my son's learning.
I am a former lawyer (now I am Full time mom) I pray God to help me to teach my boy at home.
Thank you Very much for your review.
I'm so sorry to hear that! The good part is since he's only 6-- he'll quickly catch on to a new method. It's much harder to teach them another method when they are set on a specific one for years. Thanks so much for watching!!!
@@LooNciFeRx my husband is a physician, I do not need to be a lawyer to have enough money to raise my kids. God helped me so much, I can stay home and educate the two little gifts God gave me.
I need God for everything and He os amazing to me. I am extremally thankful and happy for the life he gave me.
@@LooNciFeRx please move on if you have nothing nice to say
@@Esperandoonoivo thank you responding with such a kind heart and not stooping down to argue! Really appreciate it!!! Blessings to you mama!!!
Hmm...this sounds a lot like common core.
As a math teacher who has actually worked with common core-- I'd like to share that common core are standards not a method in doing math. They are standards assigned to what each child should know for each grade. Singapore math is the actual way Singapore itself teaches math-- and they have the strongest math scores out there!