Mathematics
We focus on 3 main things:
- Fluency - We learn basic number facts so we can work quickly and accurately.
- Reasoning - We learn how to explain our thinking and understanding.
- Problem Solving - We learn how to solve problems.
These are our beliefs:
- We can all be good at Maths.
- We all learn together; we help each other understand.
- We know that it’s ok to make mistakes; we use them to learn.
- We expect to find some things hard; we know to keep trying.
- We know that it is important to understand why answers are correct.
- We like to prove our understanding.
- We use resources and images to help us learn.
Our teachers think about the way we are taught:
- They use apparatus, models and images to help us learn.
- They develop our conceptual understanding of the different topics.
- They ask questions that help us develop our understanding.
- They check our work within the lesson and/or at the end of each day.
- They get us to check our own work and that of our peers.
- Their marking helps us to know how we are doing.
- Their marking helps them plan the next day’s work.
- If we are struggling to do the work, they will help get us support.
The Aims of Mathematics:
- To promote enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning through practical activity and exploration
- To promote confidence and competence so that children are proud of their achievements
- To develop logical thinking and reasoning skills through an investigative approach
- To develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of numbers and the number system
- To develop problem-solving skills through reasoning in a range of contexts
- To develop a practical understanding of data collection and presentation
- To explore features of shape and space, and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts
- To understand the importance of mathematical skills in everyday life
Our daily, ‘quality first’ teaching encompasses work on counting and the number system, mental mathematics and an objective-based focus from the curriculum. Our teaching addresses the 3 main aims of the mastery curriculum (fluency, reasoning and problem-solving). We provide focused support for our KS2 pupils to help them build an understanding of the skills needed when problem-solving.
We use AfL strategies to inform our knowledge of pupils’ understanding. Our marking policy ensures regular, short-term assessments that inform planning and enable accurate teacher assessments of specific objectives. In addition, we use regular formal testing to aid accuracy in regard to teachers’ judgments.
