I used Singapore with a student a few years ago. He had been sailing along in math (in 4th), but was hopelessly confused in 5th as they introduced Singapore. Teacher said — “Do not use this without the teachers’ manual. You will not be able to teach it.” I didn’t bother, but I did not like it at all. For many reasons. I homeschooled my own son, so have some experience with a variety of programs; I consider Singapore a fad. Where oh where is the basic, old-fashioned math?
I didn’t use SM, but I’ll be darned if I can’t teach 5th grade math without being told what to do and say and how to solve problems.
***Where oh where is the basic, old-fashioned math?***
But, but, but...publishers don’t make any money with old-fashioned math. And an assistant (or associate principal) doesn’t get promoted to principal unless they promote what SEEMS to be a better way to teach.