A Comparison of the Middle School Mathematics Curricula of Turkey and Singapore with Respect to the Learning Domain of Algebra

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to compare the mathematics curricula of the 5th-8th grades in Turkey and the same level of grades in Singapore with respect to the learning domain of algebra. For this purpose, these curricula are compared in terms of the sub-learning domains, number of outcomes, contents of outcomes, the order in which they are taught, the grade level and application guidelines of outcomes, and their classification in the Bloom Taxonomy. The pattern of this research is a document review. Under this pattern, the horizontal approach is used to compare the curricula of the two countries. In the research, the data was analyzed through content analysis and the descriptive analysis methods. The research findings indicate that both curricula differ in terms of sub-learning areas, the number, content and ranking of outcomes, especially their implementation guidelines and classification in the Bloom taxonomy. The Singapore Mathematics Curriculum with the context of algebra learning domain handle everyday life problems as a sub-learning domain, includes the relatively more difficult topics at the secondary school level, includes more outcomes, includes the content of the Turkish Mathematics Curriculum, but also includes additional topics, differs from the Turkish Mathematics Curriculum in the teaching of the concept of 'variable' which constitutes the basis of algebra, and the fact that the cases of equality and inequality are addressed together; clearly provides guidance for the learning and teaching process by offering direct applications, software, function machines, table use, working with groups and game suggestions in the application guidelines, places more emphasis on high-level cognitive skills.