Mathematics

Intent

 

We seek for our children to develop a strong understanding of number and mathematics in the widest sense - especially how it relates to real life. As importantly, they will be taught with the goal of mastery in mind. By that, we mean being able to explain their thinking clearly and rationally and being able to apply mathematical knowledge to new situations in their learning whilst being very aware of the role of language in being key to unveiling mathematical truths.  As with all subjects, each unit of study will have specific ‘sticky knowledge’ (the things we want the children to know or skills to be able to apply long term). These are guided by ‘Golden Threads’ that weave throughout all Mathematics learning and they are derived from the areas outlined in the National Curriculum and – from Early Years onwards - the children will deepen their understanding of, and love for, this beautiful area of exploration. Our golden threads in Maths are fluency, reasoning and mastery developed in number, measurement, geometry, statistics, ratio and proportion, and algebra.

Implementation

Mathematics will take place every day for an hour and there are often other fun activities taking place where children are doing mathematical learning without realising. We use high quality teaching, learning and assessment materials from White Rose and the NCETM, along with challenge activities derived from online sources such as NRich and I See Maths. Most of our current staff have been active participants in mastery training programmes with the NCETM (National College for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics) and the knowledge and insights are distilled to all staff via regular training.

Impact

Understanding will be gauged from learner voice conferencing, book monitoring, quality of work produced and end of unit quizzes/assessments, along with ongoing formative assessment within and between lessons. Ultimately, it gets measured by end of Key Stage 2 SATs attainment within the national context. Learners are involved in assessing their learning daily. This is the key area of meaningful assessment – to address misunderstandings as soon as possible to be able to progress our learners’ development. Learners will be challenged (and be increasingly able) to recall and build on previous knowledge and subject specific skills. They will develop the ability to make connections within mathematics and beyond to the wider world, understanding the application of mathematics and rational thought processes in an increasing range of contexts. They will see maths as a lifelong- developing way of thinking, a vital tool in their increasing range of skill sets.