Strengths and Challenges of Applying Singapore Mathematics in United States High School

This study examines the strengths and limitations of applying Singapore math techniques with high school students in a private school geometry class. A qualitative method with a constructivism framework was used to collect the data from surveys and interviews. The students were then introduced to the Singapore math's bar modeling techniques through solving a word problem activity. The students were all visibly impressed and full of praise of Singapore math's bar modeling techniques. Singapore math has influenced my teaching style that appeals to all of the students visually. My visually inclined teaching style will be used continually to engage my students in math. Singapore math's bar modeling techniques should have a place in high schools because it can help increase students' confidence in math and improve students' level of critical thinking and problem solving skills. Teacher training in Singapore math and choosing an appropriate Singapore math textbook are challenges. More studies are still needed to implement Singapore math successfully at the secondary level in the U.S. However, it is not possible to completely transfer everything about Singapore math over to solve the problems of U.S. educational system