Mathematics
Our Intent
At Colville Primary School, our maths curriculum is designed to provide children with a strong foundation for understanding number, reasoning, thinking logically, and problem solving with resilience. By adopting a Mastery approach, we aim to ensure that all children, regardless of their starting point, maximise their academic achievement and develop an appreciation and enthusiasm for Maths.
Our key objectives are as follows:
1) Develop a positive attitude to maths as an interesting and attractive subject in which all children gain success and pleasure.
2) Develop mathematical understanding through systematic direct teaching of appropriate learning objectives.
3) Encourage the effective use of maths as a tool in a wide range of problem-solving activities within school and, subsequently, adult life.
4) Develop an ability in the children to express themselves fluently, to talk about the subject with assurance, using correct mathematical language and vocabulary.
5) Develop mathematical skills and knowledge and quick recall of basic facts.
6) Develop a range of efficient mental calculation strategies for all four operations.
7) Be confident using written calculation methods for all four operations.
Implementation
Our mathematics curriculum is carefully planned and sequenced to ensure progression and coverage of key mathematical concepts. We follow the National Curriculum guidelines and use a variety of high-quality resources and materials to support teaching and learning. Our unit plans are based on “White Rose Maths Scheme” (WRM), which is designed to support a mastery approach to mathematics. The scheme is based around three principles:
- conceptual understating is key,
- children must be able to speak in full sentences and use correct mathematical vocabulary and
- learn to think like mathematicians.
We supplement this scheme with additional, rich tasks to allow key concepts to be explored in different ways. Teachers also implement the agreed calculation policies for progression in written and mental calculations.
Our teaching approach incorporates a variety of strategies to cater to the diverse learning needs of our students. We use a combination of whole-class instruction, small-group activities, and independent practice to engage students and promote active participation in their learning. We adopt a concrete-pictorial-abstract approach to enable students to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Concrete materials and manipulatives are used to represent and explore mathematical ideas. 
Students then progress to pictorial representations before transitioning to abstract symbolic notation. This approach facilitates the development of conceptual understanding and supports students in making connections between different representations.
Pre and post unit assessments are used where appropriate along with termly assessments, which help teachers to gather an understanding of their pupil’s existing and developing knowledge and skills.
Impact
The impact of our mathematics curriculum is far-reaching and is evident in the following ways:
1) Mastery of Mathematical Concepts and Skills: We consider a mathematical concept or skill to be mastered when a child can demonstrate a deep understanding of it in multiple ways. Our students develop a strong foundation of mathematical knowledge and skills, enabling them to confidently tackle complex mathematical concepts and solve problems effectively.
2) Quick Recall of Facts and Procedures: Children demonstrate quick recall of facts and procedures, including times tables. They develop automaticity in recalling key mathematical facts, allowing them to perform calculations efficiently and accurately. This fluency in basic operations provides a solid basis for more advanced mathematical thinking and problem solving.
3) Flexibility and Fluidity in Mathematical Contexts: Our students exhibit flexibility and fluidity in their ability to move between different contexts and representations of mathematics. They can apply their understanding to a range of real-world scenarios, recognizing the relevance and importance of mathematical concepts beyond the classroom. They understand that mathematics is a versatile tool that can be applied in various contexts, enabling them to make connections and transfer their knowledge to new situations.
4) Recognition of Relationships and Connections: Children develop the ability to recognize relationships and make connections within mathematics. They can identify patterns, similarities, and links between different mathematical concepts, fostering a deep understanding of the subject. This skill enables them to approach complex problems from different angles and find creative solutions.
5) Confidence and Belief in Achievement: Our students demonstrate confidence and belief in their ability to succeed in mathematics. They have a growth mindset, understanding that effort and perseverance are key to overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. They embrace mistakes as opportunities for learning and show resilience in problem solving. This confidence and positive mindset contribute to their overall success in mathematics.
6) High Standards and Pride in Work: Children take pride in their mathematical work. They understand the importance of presenting their work neatly and accurately, demonstrating a high level of pride in their achievements. Their maths books evidence work of a high standard, displaying their understanding and progress. They have a positive view of maths as an exciting and enjoyable subject, encouraging them to explore, question, and investigate.
7) Awareness of Strengths and Targets for Development: Our students have a good understanding of their strengths and areas for development in mathematics. They are aware of their targets for improvement and actively engage in self-reflection and goal setting. They take ownership of their learning, seeking strategies and resources that best support their individual needs.
8) Achievement and High Standards: The impact of our mathematics curriculum is reflected in the achievement of our students. We set high standards for our learners and regularly assess their progress. Through rigorous internal and external moderation processes, we ensure the accuracy and consistency of our assessments. Our feedback and interventions support children in striving to be the best mathematicians they can be, resulting in a high proportion of children performing at or above expected levels.
Overall, the impact of our mathematics curriculum extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills. Our students understand the relevance and importance of mathematics in real-world contexts and develop a positive view of the subject. They are confident, resilient, and motivated learners, equipped with the mathematical tools and mindset necessary for success in their academic journey and future endeavours.
Further Resources
My Maths
Best accessed on a desktop PC, Mac or laptop.
Year 3 to Year 6 will also have times tables practice set on Sumdog. If your child is ready for times tables in KS1, you can sign up online to access the content.
Sumdog
https://www.sumdog.com/user/sign_in
Tablet app download: https://pages.sumdog.com/pages/sumdog_apps/
