30/03/2026
5 Strategies To Improve Math Scores, Backed By Research
Are you looking for ways to help your child perform better in math tests and exams?
Here are 5 strategies that are backed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, which conducts the triennial PISA
1. Ask open-ended questions
A study that reviewed 37 research documents on classroom questioning3 found that the use of questions in teaching is positively related to fact retention and student achievement. For example at SAM we like to ask questions like "What is the problem?", "What do you need to find out?"
2. Use manipulatives
Math manipulatives are physical objects such as counters, blocks, and interlocking cubes, which are used for teaching math concepts. Manipulatives can be useful to recap and reteach concepts, or help students learn multiple concepts
3. Think about thinking
The Singapore primary math syllabus emphasises metacognition which we define as "thinking about thinking". Students who practice metacognition will consider why they selected an approach to solve a problem, it's as simple as asking questions like "How did you find that out?'
4. Adopt a holistic approach to teaching
S.A.M trainers use hands-on activities to integrate multiple strategies for teaching math concepts and thinking skills to students
5. Personalise your child’s learning experience
There is no single definition for what “personalised learning” entails, but it’s safe to say that it departs from the traditional one-size-fits-all instruction model to let students work at their own pace and ability level, and meet their learning needs.
To read more about how to improve Math scores visit
https://sam-wa.au/5-strategies-to-improve-math-scores-backed-by-research-2/