How does the new Primary 5 Maths syllabus compare with the previous syllabus?
The Ministry of Education usually reviews subject syllabuses once every few years to refresh and maintain content relevance. This year, a new Primary 5 Maths syllabus was introduced. The table below provides a summary of the changes.
Topic Adjustments
In the new syllabus, some topics have been reshuffled across levels. Ratio is now covered in Primary 6 instead of Primary 5. At the primary level, ratio is a useful problem-solving tool, especially for word problems. Shifting Ratio to Primary 6 will allow pupils to apply ratio to a wider range of problems.
Another significant change is the shifting of Average from Primary 5 to Primary 6. This allows pupils more time to build a strong foundation in data handling before applying it to more complex concepts found in the topic of Average.
In addition, we previously highlighted that with the revised Primary 4 Maths syllabus, pupils will learn Pie Charts in Primary 4 instead of Primary 6. As such, under the new Primary 5 Maths syllabus, pupils now have the opportunity to apply percentage in pie charts in Primary 5 instead of having to wait until Primary 6.
On the whole, the new syllabus allows for a more gradual learning progression of mathematical concepts. Pupils will be able to build a stronger foundation in basic concepts before progressing to more complex topics such as Ratio and Average in Primary 6.
With a receptive learning attitude in class and conscientious effort in revision, pupils will be able to ease into the new syllabus positively. To boost learning efficacy, pupils can refer to Primary 5 Intensive Maths Drills ($12.90), Primary 5 Complete Maths Essentials ($12.90), and Primary 5 Daily Dose of Maths ($17.90) from Educational Publishing House. These supplementary resources have been revised according to the latest syllabus to help pupils adapt to the changes.
