Maths
“Mathematics is a strength of the school,
and many of the pupils I spoke to
were quick to tell me that mathematics
was their favourite subject”
At Radbrook Primary School we believe that mastery in mathematics is:
- Mastery denotes a focus on achieving a deeper understanding of fewer topics, rather than accelerating into new content, through problem solving, questioning and encouraging deep mathematical thinking.
- Mastery involves knowing ‘why’ as well as knowing ‘that’ and ‘how’: deep structural knowledge of mathematics.
- Mastery means being able to use knowledge appropriately, flexibly and creatively and to apply it in new and unfamiliar situations.
Intent
At Radbrook Primary School, we inspire all children to become confident and enthusiastic mathematicians, who are willing to take risks and are not scared of making mistakes but who learn from those mistakes. We aim to develop mathematical skills and to provide opportunities for their application in meaningful, real-life situations. Key knowledge and skills are revisited regularly allowing repetition to embed learning. A concrete, pictorial, abstract approach provides children with a clear structure in which they can develop their depth of understanding of mathematical concepts so they are equipped for challenges with every day maths.
Implementation
A Mastery approach to Maths is used whereby children are given the opportunity to develop their number skills in a broad range of real life situations. Use of precise mathematical language enables all pupils to communicate their reasoning and thinking effectively. Fluency is developed through repeating, reinforcing and revising key skills. Children are given time to practice and perfect their calculation strategies including giving pupils the opportunity to make appropriate decisions when estimating, calculating and evaluating the effectiveness of their chosen methods. Discussion is essential to learning and children are encouraged to discuss their thoughts, ideas and methods with a partner, group or the teacher. |
Impact
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Children have a positive view of maths due to learning in an environment where maths is promoted as being an exciting and enjoyable subject in which they can investigate and ask questions. They know that it is reasonable to make mistakes because this can strengthen their learning through the journey to finding an answer. Our children have a good understanding of their strengths and targets for development in maths and what they need to do to improve. Our maths books evidence work of a high standard of which children clearly take pride; the components of the teaching sequences demonstrate good coverage of fluency, reasoning and problem solving. |