According to a study, primary school children taught using the Asian-style of maths make more progress within two terms. Researchers have found the “mastery” approach, which ensures all students grasp each concept before carrying forward has proved popular among students and teachers alike.
The research is the first to quantify the impact of the pastry approach to teaching maths. Ministers are keen for schools to include the technique which is widely used in Singapore, Shanghai and Hong Kong. During the study, researchers used the Inspire Maths, an Oxford University Press based on teaching aides used in Singapore. The book develops children's understanding of core maths principles and erasing skills with a combination of whole class instruction.
The study looked at the progress of maths of 576 children aged five and six, and 20 teachers in 12 primary schools over two terms.
