IB PYP 3 Maths
Ancourage Academy · IB PYP · PYP 3
Content reviewed: Jan 2026
IB PYP 3 Mathematics tuition at Ancourage Academy in Singapore (Bishan & Woodlands) offers small-group classes of 3-6 students, aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme. Weekly 1.5-hour lessons use our ESB methodology to strengthen multiplication/division fluency, fraction concepts, and multi-step problem-solving through hands-on exploration. "PYP Mathematics builds number sense through hands-on exploration and real-world connections," according to our educators. Our structured approach helps children develop confident calculation skills and mathematical reasoning for complex word problems.
What Makes Us Different
Our proven teaching methodology combines evidence-based approaches for maximum learning effectiveness
Ebbinghaus Memory Theory
Planned retrieval practice at expanding intervals — weekly topic quizzes, monthly mixed reviews, and term revision cycles — timed to strengthen memory just before it weakens, so knowledge stays accessible under exam pressure.
Socratic Questioning
Probing questions that surface each student's reasoning — 'Why did you choose that method?' and 'What if the question changed this detail?' — revealing gaps in understanding early so misconceptions are corrected before they compound.
Bruner's Scaffolding
Graduated support from fully guided to fully independent — tutors first model the solution, then prompt during practice, then observe silently — systematically building competence while ensuring students do not develop reliance on hints.
Key Learning Outcomes
Master Key Concepts
Deep understanding of core topics aligned with MOE syllabus
Critical Thinking
Develop analytical and problem-solving skills
Exam Confidence
Strategic exam techniques and time management
Consistent Results
Improved grades and academic performance
Course Structure
Duration
1.5 hours per lesson
Full coverage with interactive learning time
Class Size
3-6 students per class
Close guidance, timely feedback, and ample practice
Materials
All materials provided
No material fees — all worksheets and resources included
Curriculum Overview
- ✓Number sense — Understanding place value to 10,000; comparing and ordering numbers; working confidently with larger numbers.
- ✓Operations — Building fluency in multiplication and division facts; solving problems involving all four operations; applying strategies to multi-step problems.
- ✓Patterns and functions — Identifying and extending numeric and geometric patterns; using simple algebraic reasoning.
- ✓Measurement — Using standard units for length, mass, volume, and time; solving real-life measurement problems.
- ✓Shape and space — Describing properties of 2D and 3D shapes; exploring angles, symmetry, and transformations.
- ✓Fractions and decimals — Recognising, comparing, and adding/subtracting simple fractions; introduction to tenths as decimals.
- ✓Data handling — Collecting, representing, and interpreting data using bar graphs, tables, and pictograms.
- ✓Mathematical communication — Explaining strategies clearly using numbers, models, diagrams, and mathematical vocabulary.
What PYP 3 Maths students commonly work on
- 1
Multiplication and division fluency — building automaticity with times tables
- 2
Multi-step word problems — identifying what each step requires and which operation to use
- 3
Fractions concepts — understanding fractions as parts of a whole and as numbers
- 4
Mathematical reasoning — explaining "why" a solution works, not just "what" the answer is
- 5
Place value with larger numbers — understanding thousands and ten-thousands
Learning Progression
Builds On
PYP 2 foundations in basic operations and early problem-solving
Prepares For
PYP 4 Mathematics with fraction operations and more complex multi-step problems
Key Transition
PYP 3 establishes multiplicative thinking — students move beyond additive reasoning to understand how multiplication relates quantities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Multiplicative thinking is understanding that multiplication relates quantities in a different way than addition. PYP 3 helps students see that 4 x 5 means "4 groups of 5" rather than just a fact to memorise, laying essential groundwork for fractions, ratios, and algebra.
PYP 3 builds multiplication and division fluency through conceptual understanding first, then practice. By year-end, most students are fluent with facts up to 10x10, understanding both the facts and the reasoning behind them.
Fractions are introduced as parts of wholes and as numbers on a number line. Students compare fractions, understand equivalence, and begin adding/subtracting fractions with like denominators, building conceptual understanding before procedures.
Our small-group classes are intentionally kept between 3 and 6 students so every learner receives close guidance, timely feedback, and ample practice.
Each lesson is 1.5 hours, providing ample time for thorough coverage of topics and interactive learning.
Yes. All lesson materials and worksheets are provided and included in the fees. Students should bring regular stationery and, where applicable, school textbooks/workbooks for reference.
Yes. Our materials and pacing align with the MOE syllabus. External syllabuses (e.g. IGCSE, IB) are available upon request.
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