Is your child going to primary school in the incoming school year? If that is a yes, you will notice that math is included in their syllabus.
Math is an important subject for kids to learn because this will help them understand the numbers that are used daily such as time, dates, prices and measurements.
While the subject can be difficult for some kids, the current P1 curriculum is designed to help children learn the subject even if they have not been taught of the concepts before.
What your kid will learn in Primary 1 Maths?
Whether you taught your kid to count up to 100, Primary 1 Maths will cover all the basic things your child needs to understand mathematics.
Here are some of the things your child will learn and be able to do after Primary 1 Math:
Work with Number Patterns
Primary 1 Math will teach students to complete basic number patterns and fill them up correctly. For example, they will be able to fill in the blanks for this question: 11, 12, 13, _, _, 16.
Learning number patterns will help the children transition to concepts such as addition and subtraction.
Work with Single and Double digits
Students would also be taught how to do the following:
Learn Number Bonds
P1 students will be taught how to create addition bonds from 1+1 to 9+9 and create number bonds that would add to 10.
However, some preschools may not have this in their syllabus so it is ideal to check with the school if they will teach it to their students. If they do not, parents must teach the concept to their children or get extra tutoring.
Learn Multiplication and Division
P1 students would also learn how to multiply up to a sum of 40 and divide a number no greater than 20.
Experts stress that children should be taught how to multiply or divide in 2s and 3s, but they must make sure that the child understands the concept rather than memorize the multiplication table.
Know Basic Shapes
Primary 1 Math would also teach students how to identify 2-D shapes like squares, rectangles and triangles. They will also be able to complete patterns based on their size, shape and colour.
Know how to compare Sizes, Weight, and Length
Measurements would also be covered in Primary 1 Math, enabling students to compare length and mass and learn about different orientations. They will then be able to use this knowledge to apply to daily activities.
How to Help Your Child Learn Maths in a fun way at home?
These lessons sound complicated right? Fortunately, there are techniques that you can do to help your child learn mathematics with a dash of fun while at home.
Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Bring your kid while doing grocery shopping
For grocery day, why not bring your child along with you?
As you do your shopping, ask your child to count the number of items in the trolley. You can even ask them to help you add the pieces you need or even have them add the numbers on your bill.
You can also apply this when you are out eating with the family. You can ask your child to count how many dishes you ordered or have them add your bill.
2. Read fun books about Math
Contrary to popular belief, there are actually some fun books about Math that you can buy for your kids. Get them these books and read them to your children to catch their interest.
Some math books would even show visual examples on how addition, subtraction, multiplication and other basic math concepts are done using things kids are familiar with.
3. Teach number patterns through puzzles
A great way to enhance your child’s analytical skills and numerical prowess is by introducing puzzles like sudoku and logic puzzles.
4. Use comics to introduce problems
If your child likes comics, why not draw your own comics where they can learn problem sums and how they can analyze them properly.
5. Use songs to introduce multiplication and other mathematical concepts
You can also introduce your kids to math with the help of nursery rhymes or catchy songs. Songs like 5 Monkeys Jumping on the Bed or Ten Little Fishes are popular with young children. Or try creating a new song yourself and sing it with your kids.
6. Use props to teach addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
You can also use props to help your child understand basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. With these props, you can ask them questions like “If I have three apples here, how many would there be left if we ate two apples?”
7. Use a weighing scale to teach weight or mass
If you want to teach your kids how to understand phrases like “heavier than” or “lighter than”, you can use a weighing scale. Let them weigh fruits, vegetables and other items and help them read the weighing scale.
Similarly, if you are going to teach your child how to read time, count money or measure the length of an item, you can use a clock, play money or coins, and a ruler or measuring tape to assist you.
To make your child’s learning challenging, try asking them simple questions like “how much change will you get if you paid for an item that is worth $20 if you paid with $100?”
Mathematics is an important subject that many people tend to shy away from, especially as they are put at speed to learn its most difficult subjects. However, we should not scare our kids who are just studying the basics of math about the difficult side of the subject.
If they do not concentrate and understand their Primary 1 Maths because of their preconceived notions that it is difficult, they will be behind their peers greatly.
With the help of the tips above, we hope that your child would pick up math easier and even enjoy learning it with your help.
Good luck and happy counting!
For fun ways to help your child in his studies, here are some brilliant suggestions: