When people talk about maths education, it often conjures up images of dry formulae, endless exercises, and complicated calculations. It seems mathematics comes with inherent labels of being "difficult" and "tedious". 

However, in the YCIS Shanghai Secondary classrooms, one discovers that Maths can, in fact, be engaging, lively, and full of challenge and a sense of accomplishment. 

Here, Mathematics education is not just about imparting knowledge; it's an expedition for the mind. 

Differentiated Teaching: Tailored Learning to Unlock Potential 

At YCIS Shanghai Secondary, Maths learning is definitely not a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. From Year 7, students are placed in tiered teaching groups: those with a solid foundation can enter more advanced courses, taking international Maths exams earlier, while students needing more support build their skills progressively. 

In the most recent IGCSE International Maths examinations, 9 students from the Puxi campus sat the exam in Year 10, a year early, and all achieved A to A* grades.

Having studied in the Advanced Maths class for two years, their success not only demonstrates the effectiveness of the tiered system but also provides a strong foundation for tackling Higher Level maths in the IB Diploma Programme. 

In YCIS Shanghai Pudong, students with particularly strong mathematical ability are selected for the 'Double Maths' programme. They study two international Mathematics courses at an accelerated pace, facing more demanding challenges. 

Small Classes & Solid Practice: Personalised Cultivation, Steady Progress 

YCIS Shanghai maintains small class sizes, allowing teachers to focus precisely on each student's learning pace and needs, providing timely, individualised support. This approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also builds students' confidence to participate and challenge themselves in various Maths competitions. 

Concurrently, Maths practice at YCIS Shanghai is thorough but avoids mechanical 'drills' that do not focus on understanding. Rather, teachers select key past paper questions and utilise smart learning platforms like Kognity to help students familiarise themselves with exam styles and master problem-solving techniques.

The focus is on developing thinking processes and strategies, not just arriving at an answer. Logical reasoning and problem-solving skills are the true, lasting gains for their future studies and lives. 

Learning Beyond the Textbook: Project-Based and Diverse Activities  

At YCIS Shanghai, Maths is never confined to numbers and symbols in a book. Teachers integrate real-world contexts into their lessons, guiding students to discover answers through active inquiry.  

In Pudong, after completing a topic, students often engage in small-scale practical projects. For instance, after learning about probability, students participate in a 'Probability Carnival'. 

They work in groups to design their own tabletop games, each group setting up a booth. On the day, other students circulate with 'tokens', playing the different games. Winners can receive prizes or extra tokens. Abstract probability concepts are thus transformed into a lively carnival. 

In Puxi, Year 10 students annually organise a 'Maths Fair'. They choose their own research topics, spend two to three weeks investigating them in depth, and present their findings on Pi Day. The topics are often surprising: 

• How to predict the path after the billiard ball hits the cushion? 

• How can mathematical concepts like area, perimeter, and scale be applied to design a functional and aesthetically pleasing dream home?  

• Which magic angle makes the three-pointer a sure score? 

• How can we find the volume of ice cream scoops, cones and the two put together. And what is the most common preferences are when it comes to ice cream. 

Such inquiries bring Maths out of the textbook and into the real world, making it a tool for independent exploration. 

Competitions and Challenges: From the Classroom to a Broader Stage

YCIS Shanghai places strong emphasis on Maths competitions. We want students to grapple wholeheartedly with unfamiliar problems, seeing this as a vital way to cultivate critical thinking and resilience. 

From Year 7 Advanced Maths, Puxi students are introduced to contest-style questions. This academic year, Pudong campus is launching a 'Maths Grand Prix' points-based scheme, where students earn points by participating in different levels of competitions, ultimately vying for the 'Mathematician of the Year' trophy. 

Olivia from Puxi is a prime example. She achieved an A* in her International Maths exam in Year 10 and is now studying IGCSE Additional Maths. A multiple award-winner in international competitions, she also received the school's Academic Excellence Award.  

She says, “ I am immensely grateful for the steadfast support YCIS Shanghai has provided in nurturing my interest in mathematics. The teachers have consistently guided and helped me; without them, I wouldn't have achieved what I have today.”

Another Year 11 student, Koh, also achieved an A* in his IGCSE International Maths exam and continues with advanced studies.

His mother, Yuriko, notes, “Throughout his time at YCIS Shanghai, Koh has received tremendous guidance from his teachers. He has benefited greatly not only in exam preparation and competitions but also gained valuable experience by designing and teaching Maths lessons for Primary students. With the school's support, he also participated in the finals of the World Maths Championship at the University of Melbourne – an incredibly valuable experience for him.”

Additionally, the school offers Co-curricular Activities such as the 'Maths Competition Club' and 'Maths Word-Problem Workshop' to help keen students broaden their horizons and enhance their skills. 

At YCIS Shanghai, Maths education is never solely 'for the exam'. It is a journey of exploration and growth. Through a differentiated curriculum, small-class teaching, rich project work, and competitive opportunities, students gradually discover that Maths is not a cold set of symbols, but a power that helps them understand the world, challenge themselves, and shape the future. 

Most importantly, this learning experience equips them not only with academic success but also with enduring thinking habits and problem-solving capabilities.

Whether their future paths lead to science, engineering, humanities, or the arts, YCIS Shanghai hopes its students will carry this spirit of courageous thinking and willingness to embrace challenges, moving forward confidently into the wider world.