Complete Guide to PSLE Math Syllabus 2025: SEAB MOE Primary Mathematics Explained
The PSLE Mathematics examination is the most important milestone for Primary 6 students in Singapore. Administered by the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB) and aligned with the Ministry of Education (MOE) Primary Math Syllabus, the paper tests deep conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply heuristics under timed conditions. This comprehensive guide covers everything parents and students need to know about the latest PSLE Math Syllabus 2025, the exam format, key topics, and proven strategies to achieve AL1 in PSLE Math.
What is the PSLE Mathematics Syllabus?
The PSLE Mathematics Syllabus is developed by MOE and implemented by SEAB to assess students at the end of primary education. It emphasises numerical, algebraic, geometrical, statistical, probabilistic, and analytical skills through real-world contexts. The syllabus builds progressively from Primary 1 to Primary 6 and places heavy emphasis on critical thinking, reasoning, and metacognition in the upper primary years.
The current framework (fully in place for PSLE 2025) continues to focus on problem-solving as the central goal of mathematics education in Singapore.
PSLE Math Exam Format 2025
The SEAB PSLE Mathematics examination consists of two papers taken on the same day with a short break in between:
- Paper 1 (1 hour 15 minutes)
- Booklet A: 15 multiple-choice questions (1 mark & 2 marks)
- Booklet B: 15 short-answer questions (1 mark & 2 marks)
Total: 45 marks, calculator prohibited - Paper 2 (1 hour 40 minutes)
- 5 short-answer questions (2 marks each)
- 10–12 structured/long-answer word problems (3–5 marks each)
Total: 55 marks, calculator allowed for the second section
Overall: 100 marks, 2 hours 30 minutes
Key Topics in the Primary 6 Math Syllabus & PSLE 2025
The syllabus is organised around five major content strands with increasing complexity:
1. Numbers and Algebra
- Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentage
- Ratio and proportion (including avant-garde ratio problems)
- Rate and speed
- Algebraic expressions (introduced from P5 and heavily tested in P6)
- Simple equations and functional relationships
2. Measurement and Geometry
- Area and perimeter of composite figures
- Volume of cubes and cuboids
- Angles, properties of triangles and quadrilaterals
- Circles (area, circumference, composite figures involving circles)
- Nets, symmetry, and geometric transformations
3. Statistics
- Pie charts, line graphs, average (mean)
- Data interpretation and analysis
4. Heuristics and Problem-Solving Strategies
Students are expected to master classic Singapore Math heuristics:
- Draw a diagram / Model drawing
- Look for patterns
- Make a systematic list
- Guess and check
- Work backwards
- Before-after concept
- Assumption method
- Restate the problem
5. Critical Thinking and Metacognition
Questions now demand multiple concepts in a single problem (e.g., Algebra + Ratio + Circles) and require students to explain their reasoning.
Notable Features of the Current PSLE Math Syllabus
- Algebra is formally introduced at Primary 5 and becomes a major component by PSLE. (some schools will introduce earlier.)
- Circle properties and measurements remain a high-weightage topic.
- Heavy emphasis on non-routine, multi-step problems that test flexibility in thinking.
- Calculator-allowed section in Paper 2 encourages estimation and verification skills.
Upcoming PSLE Math Syllabus Changes 2026 (For Current P5 Students)
While PSLE 2025 follows the existing framework, SEAB and MOE have announced minor refinements starting from 2026:
- Increased weightage on algebraic manipulation and thinking
- More questions requiring students to form equations from word problems
- Continued focus on real-world application and data literacy
Parents of current Primary 5 students should already begin exposure to simple algebra and model drawing for ratio and fractions.
PSLE Math Preparation Guide: How to Achieve AL1 in PSLE Math
Scoring AL1 (Achievement Level 1, 90 marks and above) requires consistent practice and strategic preparation. Here are proven PSLE AL1 tips used by top scorers:
- Master the Fundamentals Early
Ensure 100% accuracy in basic operations, fractions, decimals, and percentage before moving to complex topics. - Build Strong Heuristics Skills
Practise all 11 classic heuristics weekly. Use assessment books that categorise questions by heuristic. - Conquer Algebra Confidently
Algebra now accounts for 15–20% of the paper. Learn to translate words into algebraic expressions and solve simultaneous equations fluently. - Perfect the Model Method
Even with algebra introduced, the bar model remains the fastest way to solve ratio, fraction, and before-after problems. - Tackle Circle and Area Problems Systematically
Memorise key formulas and practise composite figures involving semicircles and quadrants. - Do Timed Practice Regularly
Simulate exam conditions: complete Paper 2 in 1 hour 30 minutes (leave 10 minutes for checking). - Analyse Mistakes Thoroughly
Keep an error log categorising careless mistakes vs conceptual gaps. - Attempt Past-Year and Top-School Papers
Exposure to papers from Raffles Girls’, Nanyang, Rosyth, and Henry Park builds resilience against “killer” questions. - Develop Explanation Skills
Many high-mark questions require written explanation. Practise phrases like “From the model, the difference is…” or “Let the number of units be…”.
PSLE Foundation Mathematics (Separate Syllabus)
Students taking Foundation Mathematics follow a modified syllabus with reduced content depth. Key differences:
- No algebra
- Simpler ratio and percentage questions
- No circle measurement
- Maximum achievable score is AL5 in the standard stream equivalent
Strong Foundation students may still transfer to Standard Maths with intensive bridging.
Final Words: Start Your AL1 Journey Today
Achieving AL1 in PSLE Math is entirely within reach with the right guidance, consistent practice, and mastery of the SEAB MOE PSLE Mathematics Syllabus. Whether your child needs to strengthen fundamentals or is aiming for the toughest problem sums involving algebra, ratio, and circles, early and structured preparation makes all the difference.
At Bukit Timah Tutor, our specialist Primary 6 Math tutors have helped hundreds of students secure their AL1 through customised worksheets, weekly heuristics classes, and intensive exam drills aligned with the latest PSLE Syllabus 2025.
Ready to give your child the best shot at AL1? Contact us today for a complimentary diagnostic assessment and personalised PSLE Math preparation plan.
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