Math In Focus: The Singapore Approach (2020 Ed.)

Now in the 2020 edition, this program still maintains the strong Singapore concrete-to-pictorial-to-abstract methodology with a few updates. There is no longer a student workbook – all instruction and practice are in the consumable softcover student edition. Performance tasks and STEAM exercises have been added at the end of each chapter. Although the scope and sequence is similar to the older editions, the program is based on the newer Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) syllabus and some of the lessons have been reorganized. A new Accelerated option is also available for advanced students to take in grade seven to develop algebra readiness by grade eight. With a mastery approach, Math in Focus stays on one topic of math at a time and explores it over several lessons (along with the related sub-topics) before moving to the next concept. Chapters, however, typically begin with a review of past concepts. It combines conceptual instruction with hands-on learning to aid students in building stronger math sense and problem-solving skills.

Main components for the 2020 edition include a Teacher Manual and Student Edition for each semester. The spiral-bound Teacher Edition is a classroom teacher guide. It is in full-color and includes lesson plans and pacing guides for each chapter, a reduced copy of the student pages with answers, instructions for using manipulatives, and differentiated math instruction for struggling, on-level, and advanced students. Student Editions are also in full-color and include the core of the student learning. Step-by-step instruction, various diagrams and examples, and individual practice are all included in the student edition. In fact, there might be some overlap between the teacher guide and student edition instruction, but the teacher edition is still necessary to implement required manipulatives, use remediation or enrichment ideas, and have answers to the student book.

Other components of this program include Assessments, Extra Practice & Homework Book, Reteach, Enrichment, and Fact Fluency books. At this point, we are not sure if the Reteach and Enrichment books will be available for homeschool. The Assessments Book and Extra Practice & Homework Book are in print format. The Assessment Book provides cumulative review, chapter tests, and mid-year and end-of-year tests. Answers are included in the back. This book will come in handy if you want additional confirmation your student is mastering the concepts. The Extra Practice & Homework Book is beneficial for students that need additional practice to build mastery in the concepts learned. The answers, however, are not available for this resource. The Fact Fluency book offers varied exercises also intended for extra practice and reinforcement. Online Assessments with Data Reporting (called HMH Ed) is also new to this edition, although homeschoolers do not have access to this online component.

Math in Focus promotes a strong emphasis on problem solving as well as critical thinking, and helps students develop a deeper understanding of concepts as they are taught the "why" behind math. This mastery program works well for students that do better focusing on one concept at a time, like the use of manipulatives, and do not like the traditional drill and memorization of math facts approach.