DIDACTIC FOUNDATIONS OF APPLYING THE SINGAPORE MATH BAR MODELING METHOD IN PREPARATION FOR MATH OLYMPIADS

The article considers one of the pressing issues in the modern educational system: developing logical thinking skills in primary school students and finding ways to solve non-standard mathematical olympiad problems. The Singapore math bar modeling method, which demonstrates high performance globally, serves as the main subject of research, with a deep scientific and methodological analysis performed on its didactic foundations. The effectiveness of the Singapore mathematics method in solving olympiad problems is substantiated through theoretical and methodological rationale, systematization of modeling approaches, and qualitative comparative analysis. The article extensively presents specific algorithms and structural model characteristics for solving word problems that involve age-related relations, combinatorial patterns, and multi-step complex logical thinking tasks. The analysis proves that the bar modeling method allows for representing problem conditions visually and spatially, structuring abstract mathematical language, and understanding complex logical connections easily without relying on equations. Furthermore, this method significantly reduces cognitive load while enhancing reversible thinking, functional literacy, and intrinsic cognitive motivation in students. The article concludes by highlighting the significance and methodological necessity of broadly implementing this innovative strategy into school practice when preparing students for mathematical olympiads and academic competitions.