Changes in the PSLE Math Syllabus 2026

Why did the PSLE Math Syllabus change?

3 main reasons:

First reason from MOE: "Continue to develop critical mathematical processes that support the development of 21st century competencies"

What I think it means: We remove outdated things we don't use anymore like compass

Second reason from MOE: "Develop a greater awareness of the big ideas in mathematics that will deepen students’ understanding and appreciation of mathematics;"

What I think it means: Less topics, more students can get better

Last reason from MOE: "Give greater emphasis to the development of metacognition to promote self-directed learning and reflection."

What I think it means: I genuinely don't know what this means or what they want it to mean

What was changed in the PSLE Math Syllabus

Removed: Compass, turning angles, speed. I believe speed was a tough concept to master, especially with the limited time at Primary 6

Primary 3 has 1 new topic, which is time.

Primary 4 has removed 1 topic: time, and added 2 new topics: pie chart and nets.

For pie chart, I think it's a good change as this will help visualise a lot more on how fractions look like, which is a concept has a hard time understanding.

Primary 5 has 2 less topics, average and ratio, which I think it's a good move. They can focus more on other topics like learning percentages and perimeter and area of shapes

Primary 6 topics has added average and ratio, while removing speed, nets and pie chart.

How to prepare for the new PSLE Math Syllabus 2026 exams

When doing the PSLE 10 year series (we have it for free 🥳), ignore any speed, compass and turning angles questions.

I would recommend to put in more practice time in average and ratio. Reason is that it's introduced in Primary 6, and this gives little time to be used to practice average and ratio, which are pretty difficult concepts.

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Sources:

MATHEMATICS SYLLABUS: Primary One to Six Implementation starting with 2021 Primary One Cohort - https://www.moe.gov.sg/-/media/files/primary/2021-primary-mathematics-syllabus-p1-to-p6-updated-dec-2024.pdf