Mathematics

Purpose:

We aim to provide a high quality education in maths which promotes the development of individual reasoning and problem solving skills whilst simultaneously giving children the skills and knowledge to understand the inter connectivity of this wonderful subject.

Core learning in mathematics

• To know and understand the decimalised number system
• To add and subtract proficiently
• To multiply and divide proficiently
• To understand and use fractions and see the connectivity with decimals and percentages
• To understand the properties of shapes
• To describe position, direction and movement
• To use, understand and convert measures
• To use and understand statistics
• To use algebra to enhance reasoning skills
• To solve problems using different operations

Characteristics of a Mathematician:

• An understanding of the important concepts and an ability to make connections within mathematics.
• A broad range of skills in using and applying mathematics.
• Fluent knowledge and recall of number facts and the number system.
• The ability to show initiative in solving problems in a wide range of contexts, including the new or unusual.
• The ability to think independently and to persevere when faced with challenges
• The ability to learn from mistakes and false starts.
• The ability to reason, generalise and make sense of solutions.
• Fluency in performing written and mental calculations and mathematical techniques.
• A wide range of mathematical vocabulary.
• A passion for maths.

 Using and Applying Mathematics within other subjects:

English:

• Demonstration of skills taught within focussed English sessions;
• Opportunities for discussing mathematics and presenting and justifying their reasoning using correct

Mathematical vocabulary.

Science:

• Measure, statistics – collecting data and drawing graphs

Design and Technology:

• Measure, angles & shape

 How?

 We are currently implementing a new mathematical pedagogy from Year 1 to Year 5 at Etruscan Primary School; Singaporean Maths, following the Maths No Problem scheme. Singaporean Maths is a mastery approach to maths and is at the forefront of current mathematical research and attainment. This is apparent when looking at world rankings in mathematical attainment, where Singapore is, and has been, at the number one position for over thirty years. Singaporean Maths uses concrete, pictorial and abstract techniques to help children to understand and internalise the mathematical operations they are using, secure their understanding of a problem and develop their individual reasoning skills. Our long term plan is to embed the use of the Singaporean Maths techniques throughout the school.

Assertive Mentoring

Alongside Singaporean Mathematics all children in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 are assessed and taught using the Assertive Mentoring system. The key concept of this system is to identify and close gaps in children’s knowledge thus eradicating poor performance in tests whilst simultaneously embedding the inter connectivity of the subject, developing mathematical fluency and deepening mathematical understanding.

Inclusion:

Teachers set high expectations for every pupil. They plan challenging work to enable all pupils to make good progress regardless of their academic ability or background. We expect all children to make good progress albeit from different starting points.