Maths
At Julian’s we aim to develop:
- a positive attitude towards mathematics as an engaging, relevant and exciting subject
- a growth mindset and resilience so that children can learn and problem solve free from maths anxiety
- language and communication so that learners can scaffold, articulate and express their ideas using correct mathematical vocabulary
- deep conceptual understanding built on experiencing mathematical concepts in a varied way through a concrete – pictorial – abstract approach
- fluency and rapid recall of key number facts to free up cognitive load, enabling pupils to work efficiently
How we do this:
We use a mastery approach to teaching mathematics throughout the school. The emphasis here is always on depth of conceptual understanding over shallow superficial learning arising from racing ‘up’ the curriculum. We use a small steps approach. Each concept is broken down into many small steps and these are taught so that misconceptions are carefully pre-empted and unpicked. The children develop deep conceptual understanding through a concrete-pictorial- abstract approach. Their understanding of concepts is probed and deepened further through use of multiple variations in the presentation of questions and visual models; by experiencing variation they grow to understand the essential core features of a concept.
EYFS:
In Nursery and Reception a mastery approach is used to ensure the foundations of maths are laid securely.
KS1:
The mastery approach is further embedded as children progress through KS1 using the White Rose Small Steps Progression units of work to guide our teaching and learning.
KS2:
In Years 3-6 we follow the Power Maths mastery small steps progression plans.
Rapid recall:
Key Instant Recall Facts are embedded systematically throughout the school using KIRF targets and assessments.