Maths

At Windy Nook, we recognise that maths is essential for everyday life; it is critical to other subjects such as: science and technology. Therefore, our curriculum intent is designed so that we as teachers, NEED to reinforce this to all pupils, parents and carers. We promote the phrase ‘I’m expecting you to do this because you can!’

We follow the 3 aims of the National Curriculum for maths:

• become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, so that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
• reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language
• can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions.

Staff have become skilled in understanding the balance and implementation of the 3 aims required and through formative assessment and careful in planning in maths lessons, children are exposed to all 3 elements on a weekly basis – this will ensure that they become both competent and confident in all areas of maths.

During maths lessons our children will begin by using the concrete, pictorial and abstract (CPA) method, which involves using actual objects for children to add, subtract, multiply or divide. They then progress to using pictorial representations of the object, and ultimately, abstract symbols. It is a highly effective approach to teaching that develops a deep and sustainable understanding of maths in pupils. Children often find maths difficult because it is abstract. However, as they progress through school they will be actively encouraged to show understanding of maths using all three aspects of the (CPA) model.

There will be a need for over learning and objectives to be continuously revisited during explicit lessons and through daily basic skills (Speed Calc). Children participate in a daily ‘Speed Calc’ session, whereby they are given a set of number-driven questions (age specific), which they are expected to answer within a given time frame. It is this area of the maths curriculum, which has maximum impact and is bespoke to our learners at Windy Nook, and equips our learners with the basic mathematical skills, we believe, for the next stage in their learning. ‘Shape and Space’ and maths facts such as: Roman Numerals and times tables are also covered within these sessions (Speed Shape and Speed Facts). A cyclical curriculum approach has been developed; therefore, ensuring that a continuous cycle which is responsive to changes within a year-group or phase. Teachers can make appropriate adjustments to account for these changes over the course of the academic year.

In the Early Years Maths is linked to Mathematics Development. For further information please refer to the Evidencing Subjects in the Early Years at Windy Nook Primary Document or click on the link for Birth to 5 Matters