Mathematics
Mathematics is a creative and highly inter-connected discipline that has been developed over centuries, providing the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems. It is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. A high-quality mathematics education therefore provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. (National Curriculum 2014)
In September 2022, we introduced White Rose Maths Mastery across the school.
What is Maths Mastery?
Maths mastery is a teaching and learning approach that aims for pupils to develop deep understanding of maths rather than being able to memorise key procedures or resort to rote learning.
The end goal and expectation is for all pupils (with very limited exceptions) to have acquired the fundamental facts and concepts of maths for their year or key stage such that by the end of it they have achieved mastery in the maths they have been taught. At this point they are ready to move confidently on to their next stage of maths.
Mastery of a mathematical concept means a child can use their knowledge of the concept to solve unfamiliar word problems, and undertake complex reasoning, using the appropriate mathematical vocabulary.
Maths mastery is a not a quick fix to maths learning but a journey that the teacher and pupils go on together, with regular diagnostic assessment to check the pupils understanding and direct instruction that teaches to any gaps.
Intent
We aim to ensure that the pupil’s needs as learners and mathematicians are effectively met across the curriculum. We believe that all pupils in our school should be given the opportunity to access their year groups content, with appropriate support and challenge where needed.
We intend for our pupils to;
- become numerically fluent so that they have quick recall of number facts and the ability to apply these quickly
- become fluent using methods to calculate so that the pupils know when and how to use a range of methods
- be able to reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, patterns and developing an argument, justification or proof using concise mathematical language
- solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication
- be able to break down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevere in seeking solutions
- use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
- develop a deep and sustained understanding of mathematical concepts, that are built on in subsequent lessons and units, through skilful planning and assessments
- build knowledge of complex concepts through small steps
- develop, understand and use accurate mathematical vocabulary
- apply their mathematical skills to a range of areas across the curriculum