Last updated: 2026-10-11
Maths is the subject where a child can know the topic and still lose the marks. The PSLE paper rewards a correct method even when the final answer slips, and it punishes a right answer with no working on the long questions. Lessons here teach both: the concept, and how to write it down so the marker can give the marks.
We tutor primary maths across the East: Marine Parade and Katong, Bedok, Tampines and Pasir Ris, at home or online.
How PSLE Maths is set in 2026
The PSLE Mathematics examination has two written papers in three booklets, 45 questions and 100 marks, over 2 hours 30 minutes, both on the same day with a break between them (SEAB, PSLE Mathematics 0008).
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A: multiple choice | 10 x 1 mark, 8 x 2 marks | 26 | Not allowed | 1 h 10 min |
| 1 | B: short answer | 12 x 2 marks | 24 | Not allowed | (same paper) |
| 2 | Short answer | 5 x 2 marks | 10 | Allowed | 1 h 20 min |
| 2 | Structured and long answer | 10 x 3, 4 or 5 marks | 40 | Allowed | (same paper) |
Two marking rules decide a lot of grades. On a one-part short-answer question, a wrong answer still earns 1 of the 2 marks if the method is correct. On structured and long-answer questions, the candidate has to show the method clearly (SEAB).
What the paper is testing
SEAB lists three assessment objectives (SEAB):
- AO1: recall facts, concepts, rules and formulae, and perform straightforward computations
- AO2: interpret information and apply concepts and skills in a variety of contexts
- AO3: reason mathematically, analyse information and select a strategy to solve a problem
Most children who "know maths but do badly" are strong on AO1 and lose marks on AO3: the multi-step word problem where the first move is the hard part. That is where lessons spend most of their time from Primary 4.
Primary 5 and 6: Standard or Foundation Maths
At Primary 5 and 6, maths is taken at Standard or Foundation level. The school recommends a combination from the Primary 4 year-end exams, parents state their preference on an option form, and levels can be adjusted at the end of Primary 5 (MOE, subject-based banding). Lessons follow whichever level your child takes.
What it costs
Published hourly rates for primary home tuition in 2026 run from about S$25 to S$40 with a part-time tutor, S$35 to S$60 with a full-time tutor and S$55 to S$90 with a current or former school teacher (FamilyTutor, SmileTutor, TutorCity). We confirm the rate for your child's level before the first lesson.
What a lesson looks like
- Starts from your child's latest school worksheet or test, not a fixed textbook
- Word problems drawn and solved step by step, the way the marker wants to see them
- Paper 1 speed and accuracy practice without a calculator
- A short note after each lesson: what was covered and what to practise
Guides for parents
- PSLE Maths Paper Format 2026: Papers, Marks and Timing
- PSLE Scoring System Explained: AL Bands and the PSLE Score
- Home Tuition Rates in Singapore 2026: Primary Levels
Where we teach maths
At home in Marine Parade and Katong, Bedok, Tampines and Pasir Ris, or online.