Maths
Mathematics Vision
To have a robust and progressive curriculum for mathematics that builds rich links between concepts so that all children leave KS2 with problem-solving and critical thinking skills enabling them to have the best life chances in the present and the future.
Rationale
The national curriculum for mathematics aims to ensure that all pupils:
- 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.
The EYFS Statutory Educational Programme (2021) sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old and supports an integrated approach to early learning. This is supported by the ‘Development matters’ non-statutory guidance.
The Godwin Approach to Mathematics Teaching and Learning
At Godwin, we use the White Rose Maths 'small steps' to structure our approach to teaching mathematics. This choice is driven by our commitment to fostering not just mathematical knowledge but also developing robust mathematical thinking skills, empowering students to approach problem-solving with confidence.
We are committed to providing a high-quality Maths education through the implementation of the CPA Approach. Therefore, children have access to a wide range of concrete manipulatives and resources to support their understanding of mathematical concepts. They are then presented with pictorial representations that bridge the gap between concrete and abstract thinking. Eventually, children move towards abstract representations and symbolic notation to solve problems independently.
Number Formation
Times Tables
At Godwin Primary School we recognise the importance of times tables proficiency in developing mathematical fluency and problem-solving skills. As a result of this, all children from Year 2 to Year 6 have a login for Times Tables Rockstars. Times Tables Rock Stars is an interactive resource that has a proven track record of boosting children’s fluency and recall in multiplication and division.
In addition to this, times tables are taught systematically and explicitly, following a progression of skills outlined in the National Curriculum. Teachers use a range of resources and strategies, such as (but not limited to): times tables songs, games, concrete resources (such as Numicon) and interactive technology, to make learning enjoyable and engaging.
Opportunities for practical and real-life application of times tables are provided to enhance understanding and relevance. Regular opportunities for times tables practice and consolidation are provided within mathematics lessons and through homework tasks.
Number Facts
At Godwin Primary School we aim to develop students' fluency and accuracy in recalling number facts. We believe this is important to ensure that students understand the relationships between numbers and can apply their knowledge to solve problems.
In order to facilitate this, we provide students with ongoing opportunities to practice and consolidate their number skills. On top of in class provision, Children in KS1 have access to an interactive ‘app’ called ‘Numbots’. The aim of NumBots is to ensure children develop a core understanding of maths from an early age, establishing a strong mathematical foundation which they can build upon as they progress through their education - with the focus on addition and subtraction and number facts. Our aim when implementing Numbots was to foster a positive attitude towards mathematics, promoting confidence and enjoyment in learning number facts.