Mathematics

At Wansbeck we aim to foster in children a strong, positive attitude towards mathematics so children become confident in developing and using mathematical ideas and strategies.  We aim to make learning mathematics interesting, stimulating, challenging and relevant.
The School uses the National Numeracy Strategy Framework for Teaching.  Whole-class teaching is an important part of daily numeracy lessons. There is a strong focus on mental and oral work and a structured approach to teaching mental calculation. 
 
A typical daily mathematics lesson:
 
Whole class oral and mental starter                                            5 – 10 minutes
  • All children involved in practising and improving their mental skills. 
  • Children learn quick recall of number facts and multiplication tables. 
  • They are encouraged to figure out new facts from known facts and to explain the strategies they used.
 
Main teaching and pupil activities                                               30 – 40 minutes
  • Direct teaching 
  • Practical and/or written work
  • The whole class may be taught together or the children may be taught in ability groups
  • Children are taught
  • to understand and use the relationships between the four operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division;
  • to use and apply mathematics through investigations and practical tasks in Number and Algebra, Shape, Space and Measures and through purposeful enquires involving Data Handling.
Plenary                                                                                                10 - 15 minutes
  • Feedback from the children to identify progress and sort out misunderstanding
  • Summary of key points
  • Next steps
  • What to do at home
 
Homework activities will usually be linked to children’s learning targets.  We will try to make the homework enjoyable.  We value parents’ involvement and support.  Our Homework Guidance gives information.  Please ask the teacher if you would like more information.