Coherence
Lessons are broken down into small connected steps.
Representation and Structure
Representations used in lessons expose the mathematical structures being taught, the aim being that students can eventually do the maths without needing the representation.
We use lots of different equipment and a variety of images to support our learners. Here you can see Part Whole Models, Tens Frames and Bar Models:
Mathematical Thinking
If taught ideas are to be understood deeply, they must not merely be passively received but must be worked on by the student: thought about, reasoned with and discussed with others.
Mathematical Thinking involves:
- looking for patterns;
- looking for relationships and connecting ideas;
- reasoning logically, explaining, conjecturing and proving
Here are some of the types of Mathematical Thinking questions we use:
- Always, Sometimes, Never?
- Convince me …
- What do you notice?
- What’s the same? What’s different?
- True or false?
Fluency
Fluency is the quick and efficient recall of facts and methods and the flexibility to move between different contexts and representations of mathematics.
Procedural fluency is knowing number facts and times tables. It is also being able to carry out methods efficiently.
Conceptual fluency is being able to use mathematical knowledge in different contexts and recognising mathematical concepts in unfamiliar situations.
Variation
Variation is twofold. It is firstly about how the teacher represents the concept being taught, often in more than one way, to draw attention to critical aspects, and to develop deep understanding. It is also about the sequencing of the activities and exercises used within a lesson and follow up practice, paying attention to what is kept the same and what changes, to connect the mathematics and draw attention to mathematical relationships and structure.
Click here to read more about the key messages behind the Five Big Ideas.
Calculation Strategies
Please find below our calculation strategies and methods we teach in each year group.
We have also created a calculation policy which you may find useful below to support your child with methods and strategies to complete their homework.
In class and for homework, we also use TT Rockstars and Mathletics to practise recalling key number facts quickly and to revise mathematical concepts further. Every child in school has a log in to access these platforms in school and at home.
