GREENVILLE, Wis., June 2, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The same math curriculum that has enabled students in Singapore to become top global performers has taken root in America, but until now, parents and educators in the United States have had to rely on supplemental workbooks written and designed for users in Singapore. However, beginning in June 2009, School Specialty Publishing will offer two supplemental workbook programs for Singapore Math textbooks that have been completely customized for the U.S. market.
The Frank Schaffer brand of School Specialty Publishing has the exclusive North American rights for two new workbook series for grades 1-7: Singapore Math Practice and Singapore Math: 70 Must-Know Word Problems. Each correlates to Singapore Math textbooks and includes key features that make it easier for parents and teachers to use. For example, the workbooks have introductions explaining the Singapore Math method and answer keys that include step-by-step solutions. In addition, School Specialty Publishing's workbooks have been customized for the American market and include metric and customary measurements, and U.S. currency.
"These are significant features that make all the difference in the world for parents and teachers who want to help students get the most out of Singapore Math," explained Ron Peek, General Manager of School Specialty Publishing. "Singapore Math is a rich and intensive curriculum; therefore, it is paramount for parents and teachers in the United States to have access to workbooks that clarify and demonstrate the pedagogy involved."
About Singapore Math
The Singapore Math method develops in-depth mathematical understanding through strong number sense, mental-math strategies, place value, concept-building activities, problem-solving methods, and guided lessons. It has been used in Singapore since 1982 and is currently used in more than 100 American school districts in California, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maryland, and New Jersey. Students in Singapore have ranked first in the world in mathematics since 1995, according to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). Scores for U.S. students were among the lowest of industrialized countries.
About Singapore Math Practice
This comprehensive workbook series allows learners to practice various types of math problems while developing their critical thinking and analytical skills. Learning objectives are provided to identify what students should know after completing each unit and assessments are included to assure they obtain a thorough understanding of the mathematical concepts.
About Singapore Math: 70 Must-Know Word Problems
Many students struggle with word problems because they typically involve two or more mathematical concepts and require reading, comprehension, and analytical skills to determine the solution. To help overcome this, these workbooks focus on diagrams, number bonds, the "counting on" method, and the "crossing out" method to help students master challenging word problems as well as exercise mental calculation.
About School Specialty, Inc.
School Specialty (Nasdaq:SCHS) is a leading education company that provides innovative and proprietary products, programs and services to help educators engage and inspire students of all ages and abilities to learn. The company designs, develops, and provides preK-12 educators with the latest and very best curriculum, supplemental learning resources, and school supplies. Working in collaboration with educators, School Specialty reaches beyond the scope of textbooks to help teachers, guidance counselors, and school administrators ensure that every student reaches his or her full potential.
For more information about School Specialty, visit www.schoolspecialty.com.