PSLE MATHEMATICS
For Examination from 2018
PURPOSE OF THE EXAMINATION
The purpose of the Mathematics examination is to assess pupils’ attainment in
mathematics at the end of primary education with respect to the objectives of the
Primary Mathematics syllabus.
ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
Pupils should be able to:
AO1 recall mathematical facts, concepts, rules and formulae; perform
straightforward computations and algebraic procedures
AO2 interpret information; understand and apply mathematical concepts and skills
in a variety of contexts
AO3 reason mathematically; analyse information and make inferences; select
appropriate strategies to solve problems
EXAMINATION FORMAT
The examination consists of two written papers comprising three booklets.
Number of
Number of Total
Paper Booklet Item Type marks per Duration
questions marks
question
10 1 10
A Multiple-choice
5 2 10
1 1h
5 1 5
B Short-answer
10 2 20
Short-answer 5 2 10
2 Structured/ 1 h 30 min
12 3, 4 or 5 45
Long-answer
Total 47 - 100 2 h 30 min
Notes
1. Both papers will be scheduled on the same day with a break between the two
papers.
2. Paper 1 comprises two booklets. The use of calculators is not allowed.
3. Paper 2 comprises one booklet. The use of calculators is allowed.
Item Types
Multiple-choice question
For each question, four options are provided of which only one is the correct answer.
The 1-mark multiple-choice questions will be straightforward questions that assess
basic concepts and skills of the Primary Mathematics syllabus.
1-mark Short-answer Question
For each question, a candidate has to write his answer in the space provided. Marks
are awarded for correct answers. Any unit required in an answer is provided and a
candidate has to give his answer in that unit.
The 1-mark short-answer questions will be straightforward questions that assess the
basic concepts and skills of the Primary Mathematics syllabus.
2-mark Short-answer question
The question may comprise one or two parts. For each question, a candidate has to
write his answer(s) in the space(s) provided. Marks are awarded as follows:
• For questions with two parts, 2 marks are awarded for the correct answers, one
mark for each part.
• For questions with one part only, 2 marks are awarded for the correct answer.
If an incorrect answer is given, 1 mark is awarded for the correct method or
working shown.
Any unit required in an answer is provided and a candidate has to give his answer in
that unit.
Structured / Long-answer Question
For each question, a candidate has to show his method of solution (working steps)
clearly and write his answer(s) in the space(s) provided.