Maths investigation and application In mathematics the art of proposing a question must be held of higher value than solving it. Georg Cantor

What is it? Application of maths is the use of a mathematical skill in solving a real life problem. Investigation is proposing a mathematical question and using mathematical reasoning to draw conclusions.

Why is it important? Application is key to improving pupils’ understanding of a concept. If they can apply a method to solve a problem they will develop a deeper understanding Test papers rarely present a page of sums. Life rarely presents us with a page of sums. We must ensure pupils have the skills to use the knowledge they are taught.

Why is it important? Investigations help develop a logical approach to problem solving and get pupils discussing maths. This will improve their mathematical reasoning which will, in turn, improve their ability to approach a worded problem.

Why is it important? “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. “

How do we build application and investigation into the curriculum? We aim for application to be part of every lesson. Following some practise of skills pupils are usually given the opportunity to try some worded problems. Investigations take place regularly and are usually linked in some way to the maths being studied that week.

Is this is just for the more able pupils? NO Investigations and applying maths to real life is essential to improve the mathematical understanding of all pupils. Giving maths a real life context makes it more relevant and therefore more suitable than the abstract ideas.

What will we see today? Every room has a maths lesson taking place where pupils are working on maths investigations. Please involve yourself with the task by working with your child (but don’t do it for them!) These are not ‘everyday’ maths lessons – more like once a week/fortnight. Pupils may well find the task difficult, make mistakes and get the wrong answer – that’s how they learn. The teachers are happy for you to take part in the lessons and work alongside your child.

We hope you enjoy your morning Go and spend some time with your child and get involved in their maths learning. Each classroom will have some evaluation forms to fill in – Please return these to the class teacher as we value your feedback.