Mathematics
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’
At Bridgewater Park School we aim to ensure that all children develop a deep understanding of mathematics and are confident mathematicians.
The four key strands for achieving mastery are:
- Representing ideas using a range of structures (these can include but are not restricted to bar models).
- Using highly aspirational language, encouraging children to reason to make clear connections between ideas.
- Variation of problems, activities and mathematical ideas both procedurally and conceptually so that children can make deep connections.
- Children should be able to automatically recall key mathematical facts and achieve mastery by fluently using these in a variety of contexts.
Mastering Number
The Mastering Number scheme is built upon the six key areas of early mathematics learning;
- Cardinality and Counting
- Comparison
- Composition
- Pattern
- Shape and Space
- Measures
In Early Years, pupils are taught the Mastering Number curriculum daily to develop number sense and firm foundations of mathematical concepts and maths within our world. In Year 1/2, pupils are also taught Mastering Number for 15 minutes daily to further strengthen mathematical concepts, knowledge and understanding.
Maths - No Problem!
The 'Maths - No Problem!' scheme is taught daily at Bridgewater Park in individual year groups, giving children the opportunity to observe, practise and apply key mathematical concepts. We believe that this systematic and aspirational approach to mathematical learning, embeds learning and creates meaningful changes to the long-term memory of our children.
‘Maths - No Problem’ uses an evidence-based approach to teaching maths, helping pupils to develop and secure a depth of understanding. Pupils are given opportunities to expand their knowledge and understanding at a relational level rather than through a set of rules or procedures, resulting in greater progress.
The scheme uses an inclusive approach with strong emphasis on encouraging various methods of solving a problem. Pupils are challenged with rich and sophisticated problems within each topic and have opportunities to explore and develop their understanding through the use of concrete, pictorial and abstract. During lessons, children work in mixed ability pairs and are encouraged to talk about their ideas, spot patterns and explain their thinking through the use of probing questions. Through the use of this approach, we aim for all children to develop a curiosity and love of maths as they master their understanding of this great subject.
