The Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition series of elementary math textbooks and workbooks is meant to be part of a system of learning in which adult supervision and independent practice go hand in hand. The main feature of this series is the use of the Concrete> Pictorial>Abstract approach. The students are provided with the necessary learning experiences beginning with the concrete and pictorial stages, followed by the abstract stage to enable them to learn mathematics meaningfully. This approach encourages active thinking process, communication of mathematical ideas and problem solving. This helps develop the foundation students will need for more advanced mathematics. The workbooks are consumable and should be used in conjunction with the textbooks. They contain the exercises the student does independently.

Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition 1A-6B is ideal for both classroom and home use for 1st - 7th grades. 1A is suitable for 1st -2nd grades. This is the most popular (Singapore Math) primary math series used by schools and homeschoolers in the U.S. and Canada.

Recommended for those who want a solid, basic math program with a proven track record and an emphasis on concept development, mental techniques, and problem solving. This is primarily a direct instruction program. Students are given several approaches for solving problems and are encouraged to discuss ideas and explore additional methods.

Teacher's Guides are best suited for classroom use. Some school teachers use the Home Guides too, because there are solutions in the Guides.

Home Guides are best suited for home use.

Home Instructor's Guides are now available for 1A -6B.

About Singapore Math
Singapore Math's main attraction is its focus on teaching mathematical thinking instead of rote problem solving. The goal is to give students an understanding of the way mathematical processes work. For example, multiplication and division are introduced very early (second grade) so that students can grasp the relationship between multiplication/addition and division/subtraction.

When a new skill is being introduced, Singapore Math walks students through each component of a problem, and then presents them with the whole problem to solve. This method trains students to think actively as they work through each step of a problem. Instead of plugging repetitive problems into formulas, students grasp and communicate mathematical ideas, laying a strong foundation for advanced mathematics.

As with any curriculum, however, there are pros and cons to Singapore Math. With the Singapore Math program, children are taught a new skill (i.e. counting backwards) and immediately asked to use it to solve a problem (i.e. filling in number sequences), but then Singapore Math moves on to the next skill and never goes back to review counting backwards. This is typical of the Singapore Math method and may lead to frustration in some students.

Since the Singapore Math method is so dramatically different from traditional math instruction, we recommend starting children in Singapore Math at a young age. Older students who have started math with a more traditional program may be frustrated at first as they adjust to the Singapore method. This is because traditional math programs teach children new skills by repetition. The lessons are repeated several times before students are asked to use the skill to solve a problem. Traditional math programs also continuously review concepts throughout the school year, ensuring that students have a solid foundation in math facts and formulas. If you would like to start an older student in Singapore Math, we suggest you start a level or two behind their actual grade level.

While Singapore Math introduces new concepts thoroughly, it also assumes that the parent or teacher will take the time to slow down and focus intensely on areas that the student does not understand right away. Teachers should be aware of their students' progress and frustrations and should be prepared to stop and review or drill until they are sure their students understand the concepts and skills. Even in Singapore, teachers supplement their math classes with workbooks, flashcards, and manipulatives.