Singapore Math Problem Solving
Heuristics 01
Draw a diagram or a model
Heuristics 02
Make a systematic list
Heuristics 03
Use guess-and-check
Heuristics 04
Look for patterns
Heuristics 05
Make suppositions
Heuristics 06
Act it out
Heuristics 07
Use before-after concept
Heuristics 08
Work backwards
Heuristics 09
Restate the problem in another way
Heuristics 10
Simplify the problem
Heuristics 11
Solve part of the problem
Heuristics are used for sorting up complex mathematical situations in problems where math problem-solving can be made simple.
Identify mathematical situations using conceptual frameworks and critical thinking skills
Master problem-solving heuristics based on the Singapore primary math curriculum
Simplify problems and find solutions by using models, tables, and other techniques
Using Mathematical Conceptual Frameworks to Analyse Problems
To be able to reason mathematically is to be able to analyse problems and come up with logical justification. Through the use of mathematics in various situations, one can cultivate this mental practice. To effectively communicate mathematical concepts and reasoning, one must be fluent in the language of mathematics and able to do it in a clear, concise, and logical manner. By doing so, pupils can improve their mathematical thinking and understanding. Finally, making connections, or being able to see how math concepts are used in everyday life, helps students understand what they are learning.
Your child will learn how to tackle the math problems in each concept module in a variety of scenarios at BIGMath™. Our carefully planned classes will teach them how to think critically, which will help them understand math concepts and choose the best ways to solve problems.
Reason logically
Mastering the 11 Heuristics Identified by MOE for Solving Math Problems
Mathematical concepts are more easily grasped when children are able to apply and replicate them in real-world contexts. This not only helps students improve their math skills, but it also helps them understand key math concepts and methods. It is important for students to develop their mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills by applying them to a wide range of situations, both hypothetical and real-world scenarios. In mathematics, modelling is the process of making and improving a mathematical representation of a problem so that it can be solved. Through the application of mathematical modelling, students gain the ability to manage uncertainty, draw connections, identify and employ mathematical concepts and skills, recognize assumptions, come up with solutions to real-world situations, and make well-informed judgments based on the information received or gathered.
BIGMath™ Lessons are based on the Singapore curriculum, which addresses the 11 heuristics identified by the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) Curriculum Planning and Development Division (CPDD) for pupils in primary schools.
Tackle effectively
Clearer to make Simpler
Split Model vs Stack Model
Making Math Problems Simpler to Solve
Heuristics and mathematical thinking are both crucial for problem-solving. That being said, it’s not enough to just know how to create a model. In order to put together a model and understand the math problem, students need to fully grasp the connections between the numbers. For example,
- When a scenario involves parts of a larger whole,
- When comparing two or more different items,
- When something is changing before or after an event,
- When something exhibits a pattern of regularity, etc.
At BIGMath™, your child will learn to identify math problems by concepts, break down information, model them, and solve them.