StillThinking:

Does no one else realise that model drawing and algebra is almost the same thing, just one you have to visualised(I'm talking about algebra, but it's not necessary unless slight confusing.) The other you will just draw so no need keep thinking back? If you view model drawing as a stepping stone to algebra, even learning algebra may be easier. Anyways, you don't have to use Model Drawing. I passed my math(PSLE) with flying colours using algebra .

lizawa:

[quote]Is it advisable to use Algebra to solve problems for PSLE Maths?

SengkangMum:

Agree! Infact , even my gal home tutor also using algebra method to teach . I think is much easier for them to digest than models.

lizawa:

The first chapter in the P6 Maths textbook is \"Algebra\". They are taught basic algebraic equations.


To solve Sect C problems, you need to form multiple equations and solve simultaneously. So, I personally feel that because they started teaching Algebra so late, it is sometimes easier for the kids to use models, process skills, fractions, ratio etc to solve the problem. If they cannot form the 2 or 3 simultaneous equations to solve, then, they will be stuck.

Just take one of the questions that Tianzhu has posted previously, on the person spending 0.5 of remaining on item x, y, z and left with $1.50 in the end. This kind of the question will be easiest solve with the process skills taught rather than algebra.

Algebra, in a way, is very mechanical. Using process skills or models, help the child to visualize and think a little deeper into the question. I think it's good training for the child.

Just my opinions.

FantasyLandDreams:

zbear:

The beauty of MOE syabullus is learn Models for Primary School Maths n then when you enter Sec School, throw it back to your Primary School teachers n start learning Algebra becos you don't need to use Models anymore.


To me, MOE only think of short term n not long term. I really do not understand what is their rationale to make kids learn Models only for Primary School n then unlearn n relearn Alegbra.

Oh well, MOE hires scholars to design the syabullus for PSLE, rite?

:hi5:

SengkangMum:

Agreeable to Twinkless and Zbear review. Pardon me of saying, I find it really senseless to use model drawing for PSLE. Like the other parent mentioned in the previous forum, let the kids decide which methodology is more comfortable for them. Like what Zbear has mentioned, you have to throw back the model drawing to Primary teachers and start learning new method in Secondary level. Why making it so confusing for the kids ? They already felt so stressed up on daily work and exams. I don't understand why add on extra burden for them. Give them a choice to choose.

zbear:

lee_yl:

Perhaps we can try to stop viewing model drawing and algebra as separate and unrelated methods. Model drawing simplifies the introduction of abstract concepts (such as let the unknown variable be x) and could be viewed as an introduction to algebra. Model drawing makes it easy for lower primary school children to visualize about unknowns as well as break down a complex problem into simpler parts.


Drawing models and having to work with units will ease the transition to the next step of stating \"let the unknown variable be x\". Moreover the habit of drawing to visualize a mathematical problem is a good habit and will come in useful when handling more abstract mathematics like vectorial calculus.

It maybe good for lower Primary but not necessarily for PSLE.

My kids struggled with Models n its a real frustration for them for PSLE maths.

Now they are in Sec School/JC, they tell me that Primary School Maths is so tough n non applicable for them now. They are much happier now.

lee_yl:

Perhaps we can try to stop viewing model drawing and algebra as separate and unrelated methods. Model drawing simplifies the introduction of abstract concepts (such as let the unknown variable be x) and could be viewed as an introduction to algebra. Model drawing makes it easy for lower primary school children to visualize about unknowns as well as break down a complex problem into simpler parts.


Drawing models and having to work with units will ease the transition to the next step of stating \"let the unknown variable be x\". Moreover the habit of drawing to visualize a mathematical problem is a good habit and will come in useful when handling more abstract mathematics like vectorial calculus.

zbear:

The beauty of MOE syabullus is learn Models for Primary School Maths n then when you enter Sec School, throw it back to your Primary School teachers n start learning Algebra becos you don't need to use Models anymore.


To me, MOE only think of short term n not long term. I really do not understand what is their rationale to make kids learn Models only for Primary School n then unlearn n relearn Alegbra.

Oh well, MOE hires scholars to design the syabullus for PSLE, rite?

lizawa:

Algebra, in a way, is very mechanical. Using process skills or models, help the child to visualize and think a little deeper into the question. I think it's good training for the child.

matrix0405:

Unless you're prepared to teach your kid algebra, using algebra will further confuse the kid as they are not taught to use this method. Besides, most model questions are set in such a way for using models to solve. Using other methods likely takes a longer time.