In many cases, the PSLE maths paper can be highly stress-inducing for your child. Their ability to answer math questions heavily depends on whether they can apply the mathematical concepts needed to solve them. It’s no longer about rote memorisation but your child’s problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
There are steps you can take to ensure that you can solve PSLE math questions with clear-headed ease. Read on to learn more.
1. Have a good understanding of mathematical concepts
First and foremost, students must be confident about their knowledge of various mathematical concepts before taking the exam. A student not being sure of their ability to answer questions can lead to unwanted panic and cause them to lose out on marks.
For instance, you’ll want to ensure your child familiarises themselves with essential functions like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc., as these form the foundation of all the questions they’ll receive. They should also understand the difference between whole numbers, fractions, and decimals and know how to convert the numbers quickly when needed.
Understanding these basic maths concepts saves students a lot of time and gives them the clarity of mind they need to finish the exam.
2. Practice with a variety of questions
PSLE mathematics papers consist of different kinds of questions. Examples include multiple-choice, long-answer, and short-answer questions. Let your child attempt practice PSLE papers that comprise questions with different approaches and question formats. By doing so, they will be exposed to a wide range of possible questions that they may be tested on in the actual examination and be better prepared. You will see a significant improvement in your child’s performance when they can answer questions of all types without hesitation.
3. Work on answering quickly
While being careful and thorough is critical, speed is also of the essence. Because of the time constraint when taking the PSLE maths paper, your child will have to be able to answer questions quickly and with accuracy. Your child should take no more than two minutes per mark in questions while doing their maths exam papers. For instance, if the question is worth five marks, students shouldn't take more than 10 minutes to solve it. This way, they'll still have some time left over to check their answers.
If your child struggles, work with them by creating strategies to answer more efficiently. You can also have them practice questions and time them. With enough practice, they will be able to solve problems within the given time limitations in no time!
4. Avoid panicking
Students tend to panic when faced with a question they’re unsure how to solve. Often, they attempt to answer it too quickly and forego all basic maths rules and techniques to do so. When you encourage your child to commit to practising maths questions, they will be able to take a step back and answer the questions by breaking them down and going step-by-step.
5. Re-check answers
Once your child is done with the PSLE paper, let them know that they should re-check their answers for any mistakes. If they’re unsure about any particular question, encourage them to try it out with different formulas and perspectives. They’re probably going to find at least some answers to correct, especially with the initial stress and emphasis on speed.
Conclusion
PSLE math papers are notoriously intimidating for most students. Ensure that your child is prepared, healthy, and calm before they sit for the exam. Following the above-listed strategies can also go a long way in helping them answer the most difficult of questions.
For additional help in tackling challenging Math questions, you can consider engaging the help of the math tutors at Colourtrain Academy, a comprehensive and affordable mathematics tuition centre in Singapore. We provide math tuition customised to our student's needs and give them the confidence to be the best they can be. Contact us today to learn more.
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