Singapore math and fact memorization

[mariaw]

We are in 2A and just starting multiplication and division. Do I need to work on fact memorization? Or will it just happen with practice as we carry on? We are using Preparing, so I don't have the notes to go along with level 2.

Thanks!

[Tansy]

My answer is I don't know.. every child is different... for me DD1 needed much repetition and memorization to get those math facts to stick. For her we need to do an instant recall/ drill type program because Math is so very confusing to her.
While My DD2, just looks off for a second, you can see the wheels turning as she then "discovers" the answer. it is not instant recall with her but I can see she understands the how and why the numbers fit together.

So if you think the flash cards are needed pull em out.

I do find the activities in the manual are super I personally think it would be worth investing in it just for the hands on math program.

[my3sons]

I think it just happens for the most part. I did use the BHFHG manual for the hands-on math activities when I was doing PHFHG last year. It was a big help. If you can swing it, I'd get the BHFHG manual and do the hands-on lessons with 2A/2B. As far as fact memorization, if it's not happening, go through a deck of flashcards and set aside only the ones that aren't sticking. I'd only do this for addition and subtraction at for 2A/2B. Then, later when doing 3A/3B, you could try it with multiplication and division if it seems like they are not sticking. I do think if a child is correctly placed in Singapore and does the hands-on math lessons in HOD consistently over time from start to finish, it does seem to just happen overall though. HTH!
In Christ,
Julie

[lmercon]

We are using Bigger now, but doing the 3A math, so I don't have Carrie's activities to use with my ds. I have found that I need to include extra practice with flash cards and computer games. My ds is a math whiz, but he does need extra practice with the rote memorization. There isn't enough in just the workbook. When I taught school, I made sure to press my parents to review the mult. facts with their children. That's the one set of facts that must be memorized.
hth,
Laura

[basesloaded]

This is my 1st year with HOD but my 6th with Singapore. My boys math skills are good but they are not as fast as I think they should be with their facts. I have tried to be more diligent with some extra drills and facts practice this year. I wish I would have been more consistent with this kind of practice much earlier. I know it would have made a difference but we all know that sometimes we learn best as we go along.

Singapore math doesn't "drill" or practice facts per say but you can add that in just a little a day or a couple times a week. We have used Math Windows for timed drills and in nice weather I have them write some of their times tables or other facts on the driveway in sidewalk chalk. We have also had speed drills with math facts at the dinner table for fun. "Drills" don't have to be dreary Have fun!