Maths
Intent
- To ensure all pupils are fluent mathematicians who are confident in the fundamentals of mathematics through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time. In order that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
- To promote mathematical reasoning by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language.
- To 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.
- To encourage a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about mathematics.
- To develop links between maths and other curriculum areas such as science, computing or P.E.
- To make sure that all children leave the academy as confident mathematicians.
Implementation
We take a CONCRETE – PICTORIAL – ABSTRACT approach to maths lessons. The children are first introduced to new concepts throughout concrete, physical resources before moving onto to pictorial, visual representations to further solidify the children’s understanding. Finally, the children will be introduced to abstract ideas on paper where they can apply their knowledge throughout a range of fluency, reasoning and problem-solving activities.
Impact
We believe that every child has the potential to become a confident and successful mathematician. During their time here, the children will develop their fluency and learn how to reason and problem solve effectively and efficiently. Using these skills to solve real life problems will help them succeed with mathematical challenges in the future. At Blackthorns Primary Academy we will help children develop the tools they need so they are ready for the challenges of secondary school and beyond.
Fluency
At Blackthorns we know how important it is to be fluent mathematicians. Every maths lesson will have some element of fluency within it to support our learning and continue to help us make progress. We also have separate ‘fluency time’ sessions throughout the day where we practice and remember previous learning.
Reasoning & Problem Solving
We also love reasoning and problem solving at Blackthorns and this also takes place in all maths lessons. The Problem-Solving Pineapple or PSP helps all the children of Blackthorns Primary Academy when solving mathematical problems. The PSP is there to help identify misconceptions, develop our reasoning skills and set us challenging problems in our maths lessons.
Mathematical Vocabulary
Our pupils gain more and more confidence and proficiency in mathematical mastery as they move through our academy. Building strong mathematical vocabulary underpins strong progress in our curriculum and we start building this from the first day they join us.
Year Curriculum Overviews
Calculation Policy
Our progression in calculation policy has been written to meet the requirements of the national curriculum for the teaching and learning of Mathematics. It is designed to give a consistent and smooth progression of learning in calculations from EYFS through to Year 6.
Year Reviews