Mathematics

At Beechwood, we embrace a mastery approach to our mathematics teaching which aims for pupils to develop a deep understanding of mathematics rather than simply memorising or relying on rote learning.

Intent

We strive to ensure that the whole class moves through content at the same pace and adaptation is key to ensure children are supported and challenged as necessary. Every lesson provides children with the opportunity to develop their fluency, problem solving and reasoning skills encompassing a concrete-pictoral-abstract approach.

The intent of the mathematics curriculum is to:

• become fluent with key number facts (number bonds and multiplication facts);
• enjoy the challenge of mathematics and develop a positive attitude towards analysis, reflection, problem solving and systematic thinking;
• reason mathematically using correct mathematical terminology;
• co-operate and interact with others in the learning process;
• recognise the relevance of mathematics to real-life and apply their skills in a range of contexts;
• use technology to further their skills, knowledge and understanding;
• apply mathematical skills and thinking to other curriculum areas;
• develop independence in their learning and challenge their thinking;
• develop deep understanding of mathematical concepts and become competent mathematicians.

Implementation

We will follow the principles of the National Curriculum 2014 and the White Rose Schemes of Learning to deliver daily lessons which use a variety of teaching and learning styles. The principle aim is to develop children’s knowledge, skills, and understanding through teaching and learning which take place within a whole class setting.

Teachers use a variety of interactive teaching methods to deliver the curriculum and achieve set learning objectives. Whilst there is a high proportion of whole-class and group teaching, the independent activities give opportunities to talk, collaborate and peer assess, and so embed and enhance their learning.

From Year 1 to 6 children have a weekly arithmetic lesson that develops children’s confidence and skills in the four operations.

The NCETM Mastering Number Key Stage 1 programme is taught in Reception to Year 2, while Mastering Number Key Stage 2 is taught in Years 4 and Years 5 in addition to daily maths lessons.

Alongside high-quality maths lessons, children have the opportunity to develop their mathematical skills through platforms such as White Rose Minute maths, NumBots, Times Tables Rockstars, Maths Shed and Arithmagicians.

Why do we learn maths at school?

• To allow us to undertake  everyday tasks such as budgeting, cooking, shopping and time management.
• To develop critical thinking such as logical reasoning, problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• To develop perseverance and resilience through tackling challenging tasks.
• To continue further education, a basic level of maths is needed.

Which jobs will learning maths help with?

Almost all careers require maths skills, ranging from finance and engineering to medicine and technology.

• Chef
• Carpenter
• Hairdresser
• Estate Agent
• Event Planner