Mathematics
Teaching for Mastery in Maths
At St Edward’s, we are adopting a new approach to the way in which we teach mathematics. We aim to provide children with a deep, long-term, secure and adaptable understanding of the subject.
At its core, a mastery approach rejects the idea that some children can’t do maths. It recognises that by nurturing positive attitudes and building confidence in mathematics, all children can achieve.
Concepts are built in small, logical steps and are explored through clear mathematical structures and representations. Children are taught together as a whole class and the focus is on depth - not acceleration - so that all children have a chance to embed learning. Teaching is supported by high-quality resources which present the flow of lessons coherently and provide opportunities for plenty of intelligent practice.
We are using the NCETM (National Centre for the Excellence of Teaching in Mathematics) endorsed textbooks and scheme – Power Maths. Children are given opportunities for rich discussion throughout lessons. Mathematical language is modelled and expected from all children. The level of challenge is high, and we are working to develop a culture in which children understand that mistakes are a valuable part of the learning process.
Our Year 5 teacher, Miss Steedman is a trained Mastery Specialist for the local maths hub, and is working with other schools in the area to develop Teaching for Mastery.
Children in Years 1 to 6 are taught a daily mathematics lesson. The curriculum is designed to enable children to work confidently with a range of mathematical concepts. The learning content is arranged into the following areas:
- Number and place value
- Addition and subtraction
- Multiplication and division
- Fractions (including decimals from Year 4 onwards)
- Measurement
- Geometry
- Statistics (from Year 2 onwards)
- Ratio and proportion (Year 6 only)
- Algebra (Year 6 only)
The specific objectives for each year group can be viewed by clicking on the links below. These objectives represent the aspiration for each child's achievement by the end of the academic year. Within some classes there may be children working below the expectations for their year group. Where this is the case, the school will be working to help the child to catch up with their peers. Where children have demonstrated a good grasp of the objectives for their year, the school will be working to deepen their understanding so that they can apply this knowledge in a range of problem solving contexts.
Mathematics objectives for each year group |
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The mathematics curriculum does not stand in isolation and teachers seek out opportunities for children to apply their knowledge in real life contexts and across other areas of the curriculum. For example, cooking provides many opportunities for children to measure whilst a science investigation will allow them to record and present statistics.
If you would like any further information about the way mathematics is taught please speak with your child's class teacher or our mathematics leader,
Mrs Leak
Calculation Policy
The school has developed a clear policy for teaching mathematical calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) to ensure that these are taught in a consistent and progressive way across the school.
NCETM
You Tube Clips
The NCETM also have a You Tube channel where there are many clips which demonstrate how different mathematical concepts and ideas are taught. Whilst it is possible to teach most concepts in a variety of ways, these clips provide a good overview for anyone who may not have stepped into a primary classroom recently.