I feel like I have learnt a lot from the Discovering Mathematics elective. Even little random facts like what all the digits mean on a best before label on packets of food. It’s interesting because at one point or another I have wondered about that and now I know the answer. I have learnt practical skills like how to read a six grid reference off a map. I have learnt interesting things about maths and art such as tessellations and Islamic art. I’ve always had a passion for learning and this module has ignited a particular interest in maths. I never used to think maths was exciting, I just thought it was something you do.

The elective has opened my eyes to all the different fields maths features in and its fascinating. I have particularly enjoyed reading three of the books from the reading list: –

• ‘How many socks make a pair?’ by Rob Eastaway
• ‘Alex’s Adventures in Numberland’ by Alex Bellos
• ‘Maths for Mums and Dads’ by Rob Eastaway and Mike Askew

I think these books make maths fun and accessible for all abilities. Maths can be a scary thought for a lot of people, however, these books are quite light hearted about maths. When you read them, it doesn’t feel like maths at all, especially the Bellos book. That is written as if he is on an exciting round the world adventure. You forget that the book is actually about maths. The other two highlight some clever tricks and math problems that are quite intriguing and make you want to try yourself…and I did a few times.

A part of the assessment for this elective is to give evidence of how I will develop my understanding of mathematics further in the future. I don’t think I can provide hard evidence of how I will achieve this. However, what I will commit to doing is continue taking an interest in mathematics by reading books like the ones listed above. I enjoyed those therefore I wouldn’t see that kind of reading as a chore. I will strive to keep up to date with any developments in mathematics teaching and I will use what I have learned from fundamental mathematics and continue to apply my logical and creative thinking, promoted by multiple perspectives, to look for the maths in everyday contexts and in other subjects across the curriculum.