Maths
Intent
We believe Maths is achievable for all. The core purpose of Maths at Bearbrook is prepare pupils for the wider world so they are able to solve problems, reason, think logically and work systematically and accurately. We have high expectations and encourage a positive ‘can do’ mindset towards maths in all pupils. This is achieved by creating learning experiences which develop children’s resilience in the face of challenge and carefully scaffolded learning, so everyone can make progress.With the right teaching, support and growth mindset, all pupils can enjoy Maths and experience success in the subject.
Implementation
We follow White Rose as a teaching sequence for delivering our Maths lessons. This will mainly be supplemented by PiXL resources and the NCETM teaching spines.
Lessons are taught using the Maths Mastery approach and include discussions, questioning, a variety of fun maths activities and demonstrations of concepts. Learning is broken down into small, connected steps, building from what pupils already know.
Teachers have high expectations of all children, there is no limit to learning. Support and challenge opportunities are provided to enable all children to feel success. Children are taught in mixed ability groupings. All children move through the same content at the same time. Differentiation happens by providing opportunities to explore concepts in greater depth and apply understanding to different situations. For those who require more support, concepts are scaffolded and further practise is provided.
Every lesson includes opportunities for children to talk to each other and the teacher about ideas. Sentence stems are visible and referred to throughout the lesson. Children are encouraged to answer in full sentences and explain their thinking using correct mathematical vocabulary.
All year groups have a mental arithmetic lesson each week. This will include times tables for Years 2-6. Key Instant Recall Facts (KIRF) sheets are sent home each half term, these include ideas for practising at home. The Numbots, TT Rockstars and Arithmagician programmes are used for school battles and home learning. Reception, Years 1, 2, 4 and 5 have an extra Mastering Number session each day, in addition to their daily Maths lesson.
Impact
Children know that maths is a vital life skill that they will rely on in many areas of their daily life. 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 making mistakes is an important step, and this can strengthen their learning. Children are confident to ‘have a go’ and choose the equipment they need to help them to learn along with the strategies they think are best suited to each problem.
Our feedback and interventions support children to strive to be the best mathematicians they can be, ensuring an increasing number of children are on track or above. Our school standards are high, we assess frequently and moderate our books to ensure children are achieving well. All children secure long-term, deep and adaptable understanding of maths which they can apply in different contexts