Why do we need Mathematics?
I believe this was a very important input for me as it confirmed some of the fears I have around teaching mathematics and has spun them in a positive light – that we have to teach maths with enthusiasm, skill and purpose so our children can build confidence. Some aspects I have taken from this input are:
- Changing attitudes around mathematics
- Explore why we need maths with children – challenge their assumptions
- Using finger counting as a tool shouldn’t be demonised, let children explore and use processes which work for them
- There isn’t always a ‘right’ way to do a problem
- Innumeracy is just as detrimental as illiteracy
- Gender issues – explore female mathematicians in the classroom and encouragement to girls
- Create deeper learning and not just passive listeners
- Encouraging children that it’s ok to make mistakes and it’s all about how to move forward
- Get children to identify their own mistakes
- Incorporate ‘doing’ maths such as show me boards
- Supportive teachers with a deep, broad subject knowledge
- “Explorers”
- Encourage “talking” and “seeing” maths
Numeracy 8 organisers
- Number and number processes
- Money
- Time
- Measurement
- Data and analysis
- Fractions, decimal fractions and percentages
- Rounding and estimation
- Ideas of chance and uncertainty
Using activities such as baking a cake to explore the different criteria.
Haylock, D. (2014) Mathematics explained for primary teachers. 5th edn. London: Sage Publications Chapters:
Primary Teachers’ Insecurity about Mathematics
Mathematics in the Primary Curriculum
Learning how to Learn Mathematics
