What is Singapore Math?

The Singapore math method is a highly effective teaching approach originally developed by Singapore’s Ministry of Education in the 1980s for Singapore public schools.


Singapore Math® programs instill conceptual depth and math mastery. We invite you to learn more about the unique strengths of the approach below.

Proven Results

Singapore consistently ranks at the top in international math testing.

Results indicate that students in Singapore not only score better on average than students in other countries, but have a very high percentage of students who demonstrate advanced knowledge of math. This is an indication of how the Singapore math method excels at teaching conceptual knowledge.

CPA Approach

Concrete Pictorial Abstract Progression

Here's a step-by-step look at the Concrete Pictorial Abstract (CPA) approach.

This is a simple addition problem from Dimensions Math Textbook 1A.

Number Bonds

Number bonds are a pictorial technique that show the part-whole relationship between numbers. Initially, the whole number is written in one circle, and the parts of the number are written in adjoining circles connected by lines to the first circle. This method helps early elementary students work towards addition and subtraction, and illustrates strategies to solve expressions mentally. Using number bonds fosters a solid number sense that serves students throughout their math education.

Bar Models

Bar Models

Bar models are a versatile and transferable tool that students can use to visualize a range of math concepts, such as fractions, ratios, percentages, and more. Drawing bar models for word problems allows students to determine the knowns and unknowns in a given situation. It extends the CPA approach, especially the pictorial phase, as it allows students to illustrate the mathematical information given in problems. It prepares them to understand more complex math on a conceptual level. This method is most effective when used frequently throughout the program.