Maths

“Good Mathematics is not about how many answers you know…… it’s how you behave when you don’t know.” (Einstein)

Without mathematics, there’s nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers. –Shakuntala Devi

Intent

Our intent is to develop our pupil’s ability to reason mathematically, problem solve and develop procedural fluency in each strand of the curriculum, using the White Rose Maths Scheme.

We aim to support our pupils to become fluent in the fundamentals of written and mental calculations and techniques, through varied and frequent practice. We want them to become fluent in their knowledge and recall of number facts. At all times, we aim for pupils to use precise mathematical language and speak in complete sentences.

We place a strong emphasis on:

Mathematical fluency: Ensuring pupils acquire and recall number facts and have the ability to manipulate mathematical concepts.
Application and problem-solving: Providing opportunities for pupils to apply their learning to solve problems in different contexts and to develop critical thinking skills.
Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract: At the core of our curriculum is the concrete, pictorial and abstract approach to maths. Throughout the entire school, topics are taught using manipulatives to ensure a deep understanding where misconceptions are aimed to be addressed.

Implementation

Mathematics in Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 (KS1)

In the EYFS and KS1 at St Dunstan's, we focus on mastering number lessons to nurture our children's number sense and promote quick recall of essential number facts. Through engaging activities on number bonds, doubles, and other key arithmetic concepts, we lay a solid foundation for our students to build upon as they advance in their mathematical understanding.

Our daily maths lessons in the EYFS and KS1 at St Dunstan's follow the White Rose scheme, a structured approach that ensures comprehensive coverage of essential mathematical concepts. By incorporating concrete, pictorial, and abstract representations in our teaching, we aim to deepen our students' understanding of mathematics and address any misconceptions effectively.

Mathematics in Key Stage 2 (KS2)

As our students progress into KS2, our focus is on further developing their numeracy skills and exploring more complex mathematical topics. Continuing with the White Rose scheme in daily maths lessons, we provide a coherent framework for the exploration of advanced mathematical concepts. With a strong Maths scheme we comprehensively cover the National Curriculum 2014.

Throughout KS2 and the rest of the school, we approach mathematics with a combination of concrete manipulatives, pictorial representations, and abstract representations. This approach helps our students develop a robust mathematical skill set and prepares them for the challenges of higher-level maths. We supplement the varied curriculum with regular retrieval practise daily when the children arrive at school and at the beginning of Maths lessons.

Furthermore, at St Dunstan's, we place a strong emphasis on mastering times tables. In addition to dedicated classroom time for times tables practice, we supplement our teaching with the engaging online platform, Times Tables Rock Stars.

Impact

The impact of our mathematics curriculum is evaluated through monitoring, allowing us to measure the outcomes effectively against our intent. Key indicators of impact include:

Skill development: Children demonstrate fluency in mathematical operations due to regular teaching and retrieval opportunities.
Positive attitudes: Pupil surveys and interviews indicate a positive attitude towards maths, with children expressing confidence and enjoyment in their learning experience.
Progress: Most children make progress in their learning which is evident in workbooks and through formal assessments.