Starting Primary 1 is a big milestone for both your child and your family. One of the first questions many parents ask is: what exactly will my child be learning in Maths?
This guide gives you a clear, topic-by-topic breakdown of the P1 Maths syllabus, so you know what to expect and how to support your child from day one.
What Is the P1 Maths Syllabus?
Starting Primary 1 is a significant transition.
At this stage, building confidence and adapting to structured learning is just as important as mastering concepts. Children who feel secure with their foundations tend to participate more actively and approach Maths with a positive mindset. It assumes no prior formal learning, though early numeracy skills like counting, sorting, and pattern recognition will give your child a helpful head start.
The syllabus is organised into three main content strands: Numbers and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics.
At its core, the P1 syllabus is built around problem-solving. Children are encouraged to think logically and apply concepts to everyday situations from an early age.
P1 Maths Syllabus Topics (2026)
Here is an overview of the key topics covered in the P1 Maths syllabus. For the full and detailed syllabus, you can refer to the official MOE document.
| Topic | What Your Child Will Learn |
| Numbers up to 100 | Counting, reading, and writing numbers; comparing and ordering; place value (tens and ones); number patterns; ordinal numbers (1st to 10th) |
| Addition and Subtraction | Concepts of addition and subtraction; relationship between the two operations; adding more than two 1-digit numbers; adding and subtracting within 100; mental calculations |
| Multiplication and Division | Understanding equal groups; multiplying within 40; dividing within 20 |
| Money | Counting cents up to $1 and dollars up to $100 |
| Length | Measuring and drawing line segments in centimetres; comparing and ordering lengths |
| Time | Telling time to 5 minutes; using a.m. and p.m.; duration of one hour and half an hour |
| 2D Shapes | Identifying and naming shapes (rectangle, square, triangle, circle, half circle, quarter circle); forming and identifying shapes within figures |
| Picture Graphs | Reading and interpreting simple picture graphs |
Common Challenges in P1 Maths
While the P1 syllabus is manageable for most children, a few areas tend to need extra attention.
Addition and subtraction with renaming. The concept of “carrying over” can be tricky at first, especially when children are still building their number sense.
Telling time. Using a.m. and p.m. correctly, and understanding duration, often takes more practice than parents expect.
Mental calculations. Working through sums without writing everything down is a skill that builds gradually and requires consistent practice.
Word problems. Even at P1, children need to read carefully and identify what a question is asking before attempting an answer. This is a habit best developed early.
If your child is finding any of these areas difficult, early support can make a real difference. Gaps in foundational concepts tend to compound as the syllabus progresses, so it is always better to address them sooner rather than later.
How Daniel’s Maths Tuition Supports P1 Students
Getting off to a strong start in Primary 1 sets the tone for every year that follows. The challenges above are common, but they are also very manageable with the right support. At Daniel’s Maths Tuition, we work closely with each child to strengthen their understanding of core concepts before gaps have a chance to widen.
Our Primary 1 Maths tuition is structured to work alongside your child’s school syllabus, so every lesson reinforces what they are already learning in class.
Small Group Classes: Our small class sizes mean your child receives individual attention during every lesson. No one gets left behind, and questions are always welcomed.
Taught by an Ex-MOE Teacher: Daniel is MOE-trained with over 10 years of teaching experience. Having worked within Singapore’s school system, he understands how the curriculum is structured and how mathematical concepts build progressively from Primary 1 onwards. Lessons focus on strengthening number sense, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills early.
Flexible Learning Options: We offer both in-person and online tuition, so sessions can fit around your family’s schedule. One-to-one private tuition is also available for children who benefit from a more personalised approach.
Affordable Fees: We believe quality tuition should be accessible. Our fees are kept reasonable without compromising on the quality of teaching.
Trusted by Parents: We are proud to hold a 5.0 Google Rating, a reflection of the consistent results our students achieve and the trust parents place in us.
Parents who would like to explore whether the programme is suitable may arrange a trial lesson with no commitment required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P1 Maths difficult?
For most children, the P1 syllabus is very manageable with regular practice. Some topics, such as mental calculations and reading word problems, may need a bit more time and attention.
When should I consider tuition for my P1 child?
If your child is struggling to keep up, showing signs of frustration, or losing confidence in Maths, early support can help prevent gaps from widening. It is always easier to address issues early.
Does Daniel's Maths Tuition follow the MOE syllabus?
Yes. All our lessons are fully aligned with the latest MOE curriculum, so your child’s tuition will complement what they are learning in school.