Maths
At Michaelchurch Escley Primary School, we are committed to providing a high-quality mathematics education that enables all children to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and skills. We follow the White Rose Maths scheme, which is underpinned by a maths mastery approach. This ensures that our teaching fosters a solid grasp of mathematical principles, allowing children to become confident and proficient mathematicians.
What is Maths Mastery?
Maths mastery is an educational approach designed to help students develop a deep and comprehensive understanding of mathematical concepts. This method emphasises the idea that all children can achieve a high level of mathematical proficiency through careful instruction and practice. The approach is built on several key principles:
Deep Understanding
Students learn to understand the 'why' behind mathematical concepts, not just the 'how.' This deep comprehension allows them to apply their knowledge to different contexts and problems.
Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) Approach
Mastery learning often follows the CPA approach, where students first engage with concrete representations (using physical objects), then move to pictorial representations (drawing models or using diagrams), and finally transition to abstract symbols (using numbers and equations). This progression helps solidify their understanding of abstract concepts.
Cumulative Learning
Maths mastery promotes building knowledge cumulatively. Concepts are revisited regularly to ensure that learning is retained and understood at a deeper level, rather than just memorising procedures.
Problem-Solving and Reasoning
Students are encouraged to tackle complex problems and reason through solutions. This develops their critical thinking skills and helps them become independent learners who can tackle new challenges.
Collaboration and Discussion
Partner talk and collaborative learning are vital components. Students discuss their thinking and problem-solving strategies, helping them learn from one another and articulate their reasoning.
Emphasis on Fluency
Mastery encourages fluency in basic skills, such as times tables, through regular practice and application. This fluency serves as a foundation for more complex mathematical thinking.
High Expectations for All
The mastery approach operates under the belief that every child can succeed in mathematics. The curriculum is designed to challenge all students and provide support where necessary, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Please find more on Maths Mastery from the National Centre of Excellence in the Teaching Mathematics - NCETM Information
Times Tables
Times tables are a vital part of our curriculum, and we encourage children to practice them regularly at home.
Some ideas of different ways you could practise:
- Use chalk to write multiplication problems on the pavement or driveway. Have your child solve the problems by jumping or running to the correct answer.
- Explore your back garden or a local park and find objects like leaves, stones, or sticks. Assign each item a multiplication value and create equations using them. For example, three leaves multiplied by four sticks equals twelve.
- Create story problems based on the outdoor environment. For example, "If each tree has 8 branches, and there are 4 trees, how many branches are there in total?"
- Incorporate multiplication into sports activities, like calculating scores or keeping track of the number of laps or jumps.
- Utilise catchy songs and rhymes that help children remember multiplication facts. There are many educational songs available online that cover times tables.
- Provide physical objects like counters, buttons, or small toys to help your child understand multiplication by grouping and counting.
To support this, we use Times Tables Rock Stars, an engaging online platform where children can practice their times tables at home. This interactive resource helps to build fluency and confidence in their multiplication skills. Times Table Rock Stars
Outdoor Learning
We also recognise the value of outdoor learning and making learning fun and interactive.. For example, children can learn their times tables through engaging games and activities outside, or they might create whole-part models using chalk on the playground to reinforce concepts learnt in the classroom.
Early Years
In our Early Years setting, we provide a rich environment for mathematical exploration through continuous provision. This allows children to engage with maths in various contexts, laying a strong foundation for future learning.
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Support Your Child at Home
You can help your child by incorporating maths into everyday activities. For instance, you can:
- Count items during shopping trips or while setting the table.
- Measure the ingredients together while cooking
- Discuss time by using clocks or times
- Play games or puzzles that require problem-solving or logical thinking.
- Spot shapes and patterns in our natural environment.
To further support your child's learning at home, you could purchase this maths homework book below. Each homework activity is matched to the teaching and learning taking place in White Rose Maths lessons. The homework books use the same layouts, colours and language used in the White Rose Maths Workbooks - making them familiar and easy to access at home. You'll also find lots of great vocabulary tasks to support children's language in the maths classroom and beyond. As well as helpful tips and questions to help children move through the homework activities with ease.