St Mary Magdalen'sMathematics
At St Mary Magdalen’s Junior School, we aim to develop self motivated and resilient mathematicians, who have the mathematical skills and knowledge needed to achieve their full potential throughout their lives. We strive to create a culture of deep understanding, confidence and competence in Maths, regardless of learner’s starting points. Using the White Rose scheme of work, we have embedded in our approach their vision “Maths – Everyone Can”. We are committed to working together to be and give the very best, and to make a difference to every pupil. Our goal is to shape assured, happy and resilient mathematicians who relish the challenge of Maths. They become independent, reflective thinkers, whose skills not only support them in Maths but also across the curriculum as a whole.
Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract Resources
Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract (CPA) is a highly effective approach to teaching that develops a deep and sustainable understanding of maths in pupils. We provide objects, pictures, words, numbers and symbols to students. All pupils, when introduced to a key concept, should have the opportunity to build competency in this topic by taking this approach:
- Concrete – Students should have the opportunity to use concrete objects and manipulatives to help them understand and explain what they are doing.
- Pictorial – Students should then build on this concrete approach by using pictorial representations. These representations can then be used to reason and solve problems.
- Abstract – With the foundations firmly laid, students should be able to move to an abstract approach using numbers and key concepts with confidence.
White Rose
We teach Maths at St Mary Magdalen’s through the White Rose scheme of work, which provide a range of high quality resources, relevant to the children. By using these resources, we ensure all children are taught the skills, reasoning and problem solving strategies need for each topic, through the use of CPA. This mastery approach allows children to deepen their understanding of Maths, and apply what they have learnt in many different contexts.
Times Tables
Times tables can help children understand many mathematical concepts and once children become fluent in times tables facts, they will begin to gain confidence in other areas of maths. Children are encouraged to learn their times tables at home, with the support of parents, using Times Tables Rockstars, and are also given an opportunity to practise when in the ICT suite, and by recalling our times tables in class. Children will be assessed on their times tables weekly, and support will be put in place when necessary.
Additional Resources:
Below are some useful links to support your child in Maths: