Mathematics

Mathematics Department

2019 was an enriching year for both our teachers and students as we embarked on various initiatives to engage students in their learning as well as to help them appreciate the beauty of Mathematics.

Positive Learning Experiences during lessons

To help students gain a deeper understanding of the concepts learnt, teachers designed student-centred lessons that engaged them in co-constructing knowledge through investigative activities and class discussions. 

The Mathematical Problem Solving Programme conducted for all Secondary One classes aimed to equip students with the skills to think critically and communicate confidently as they solve unfamiliar problems. Subsequently, they had the opportunity to hone their skills when they carried out a collaborative project which required them to find out the perimeter and area of the school's Eco Garden in order to solve a real-life problem. 

Discussing how to measure the shortest route from the classroom to the canteen

Reflections:

"I enjoyed the (Trigonometry) lesson and felt that it was engaging as it involved discussion and opportunity for us to talk. I also liked the fact that there were more student-teacher interactions than usual. The lesson helped me to understand the concept better as we were given a chance to discuss and form new knowledge instead of simply memorising what the teacher taught me."

Student from class 303

“It showed me that Math is not all about just reading, memorising methods and applying them in practice. Sometimes, I might come across question types that I have not seen before. I have to think very hard to solve it, or draw it out as I am a visual learner."

Student from class 107

“I learnt to use different problem solving strategies. I also gained confidence when I presented the solution to other classmates.” 

Student from class 101

Mathematics and Science Week

Based on the theme “Ignite. Inspire. Illuminate” for this year’s Mathematica and Science Week, activities like daily quizzes, recess carnival and Escape Room, were organised for students to have fun while applying their mathematical and scientific knowledge. During Assembly, students learned more about the history of Mathematics and Science in Western and Asian culture, and watched quiz participants trying to outdo one another in a quiz.

Active participation during the Assembly Programme	iPad games are still an all-time favourite!

Reflections:

“Participating in the assembly programme was a highly fulfilling and fun process that allowed me to broaden my horizons and apply a wide repertoire of skills!” 

Student from class 402

Singapore-Australian Mathematics Exchange (10 April to 12 April)

Three educators from Australia visited our school in April to gain insights into the teaching of Mathematics in Singapore schools. There were opportunities for our teachers to engage in professional dialogues with them, which included feedback on lessons observed and discussion of teaching strategies. Both parties benefited much from this professional exchange.

Reflection:

“Through the hands-on learning, I was better able to visualise and understand the true logic behind the formula used. The funny anecdotes the teacher incorporated into the lesson also engaged the class. It was also great to learn through a different approach, without help from the textbook at all. The lesson was truly enriching and fruitful, with the hard work put in by all the teachers to teach us the otherwise abstract content in a fun and engaging manner.” 

Student from class 402

Secondary 3 CnME Modules

1. Seeing the World through Mathematics

This module was offered to selected Secondary Three students with a strong inclination in the subject. Besides acquiring content knowledge, participants were also introduced to the process of mathematical modelling which seeks to simplify an observed phenomenon to arrive at a mathematical description. Students had the opportunity to apply skills like identifying variables, analysing factors and gathering evidence. 

Reflections:

“I learnt that many of the problems in life can be solved using math. I enjoyed the process of gaining new information through different perspectives during the presentations.”

Student from class 307

“I learned how to use Excel to check my answers and that mathematics does not only use logical reasoning. For example, when we had to measure the fastest route to the canteen from a classroom, we had to figure out effective ways to measure the distance of the routes. This module gave me the opportunity to think out of the box. Hence, I really enjoyed the module!”

Student from class 305

2. Undoing Common Sense through Mathematical Thinking

In this module, as students grappled with unconventional mathematical problems that were either counter-intuitive or confusing in nature, they gained the understanding that mathematics is crucial in life, and that relying on one’s common sense might not be the best way to approach a problem. Students also took part in engaging activities and games that challenged them against their own common sense.  

Reflections:

Student from class 309

Other programmes:

·        Mathematical Problem Solving Programme

·        Financial Literacy Programme

·        Singapore Mathematical Olympiad for selected students