Program Comparison
Our core programs are more similar than they are different. However, each one has unique strengths.
• A great first step is to look at sample pages for each program and see which most appeals to you.
• There’s only one edition of Dimensions Math, while there are four editions of Primary Mathematics. You’re deciding between the following core programs: Dimensions Math PK-5, Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition, Primary Mathematics Standards Edition, Primary Mathematics Common Core Edition, and Primary Mathematics 2022 Edition.
• They all share a similar approach, and except for Primary Mathematics 2022, they follow a similar sequence of topics year-by-year.
• You can easily switch from one program to another for the next year, with the exception of going from Primary Mathematics 2022 to any of the other programs, and from Grade 5 of Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition to Grade 6 of Primary Mathematics Standards Edition. It’s easier to make the change at earlier grade levels.
Why choose Dimensions Math® PK–5?
Dimensions Math PK–5 is our flagship curriculum. It was created by our team of experts to provide a comprehensive, supported, and beautiful Singapore math experience.
• Cohesive PK–5 series, which continues through more advanced grades in our Dimensions Math 6–8 program.
• Substantial, ever-expanding teaching resources including video subscriptions and more.
• Vibrant illustration and clean design engages students and makes teaching easier.
• Excellent value and accessible pricing.
Why choose Primary Mathematics?
Primary Mathematics is the original, world-renowned Singapore Math curriculum. It put Singapore on the map of international math achievement over 20 years ago.
Due to wide adoption over many years, there is ample support for the early editions of Primary Mathematics.
Different editions align with specific standards:
• Primary Mathematics 2022 Edition: Focuses on U.S. standards alignment and differentiation. Note: Content is entirely new, marks major departure from previous Primary Mathematics editions.
• Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition: Almost identical to the original program from Singapore, but uses U.S. measurements and currency.
• Primary Mathematics Standards Edition: Revised to meet the California Public School standards prior to Common Core.
• Primary Mathematics Common Core Edition: Revised to more closely align with Common Core.
Suggestions from our head curriculum advisor
Below are detailed tips from one of our curriculum writers and head advisor, Jenny Kempe, to help you make the right choice for you and your student.
Jenny says, "Use Dimensions Math if..."
• Your student is generally competent in math and hasn't struggled with the topic much in the past.
• You want the most affordable curriculum with built-in differentiation that doesn’t require additional resources and can be used flexibly with most levels of ability. (Please note, Dimensions Math contains many practice problems to reduce the need for supplemental material. Students are not expected to do all problems in all lessons. Educators should pick and choose what's appropriate.)
• You are mostly confident in your ability to teach math and to fit the curriculum to your student’s needs, or are willing to gain that confidence by studying the content and the guides.
• You want your student to be exposed to more mental math strategies and a greater variety of problems, including more challenging ones.
• You want your student to be more advanced in math than a typical U.S. student, but still cover the Common Core Standards, though sometimes in an earlier grade level.
• You want the option to add a video subscription that covers each lesson very comprehensively.
• You enjoy math yourself or want to gain more depth in your own understanding of math.
Jenny says, "Use Primary Mathematics U.S. Edition if..."
• Your student is generally competent in math and hasn't struggled with the topic much in the past.
• You want the “original” that has been around for the longest time and has been successfully used for decades.
• You want the shortest lessons and workbook exercises. This is an efficient program.
• You are not concerned about Common Core Standards. (This was not written for U.S. standards. It was lightly adapted for currency and measurement from the Singapore curriculum.)
• You are willing to supplement with additional resources for more practice and challenge as needed. (This is a relatively spare program as it was designed to give teachers in Singapore time to do their own additional teaching. There are many great supplementary options that complement this series.)
Jenny says, "Use Primary Mathematics 2022 Edition if..."
• Your student struggles with math, and has difficulty moving to the abstract. (Of our core programs, this one is most suitable for students who struggle with math because its scope, pace, and reviews make it a more manageable curriculum. Please note, it can be used for all levels of ability and includes differentiated learning pathways.)
• You prefer to follow more scripted lesson plans without the need to modify much for ability.
• You want to cover only the topics covered in U.S. public schools for that grade level, but cover them with greater depth and understanding.
• You prefer a holistic approach to math that's more integrated with other subjects with emphasis on growth mindset, social and emotional learning, and preparing students for twenty-first century competencies. This program includes journaling, self-reflection, and STEAM activities.
• You are coming to Singapore math in Grades 4 or 5 and do not want to have any issues with transitioning from another U.S. curriculum because topics were not covered earlier.
The takeaway:
All are excellent Singapore Math® programs that instill deep conceptual understanding and computational fluency.
Each program has unique strengths. Assess your student's needs and your teaching preferences to decide on the best fit for you.