By the end of today: Maths learning – building blocks The way maths progresses in school Understanding the way maths is taught in school Different strategies to teach maths Some maths resources to use Things you can do to support maths learning at home

Anything else??

Maths building blocks REMEMBER IT SHOULD BE FUN AND IS NOT ABOUT FILLING IN PAGES OF SUMS 1 – maths done in head 2 – if maths is too hard, use jottings and draw pictures to help 3 – learn quick and efficient methods of working out on paper 4 – choice of formal written methods

Maths Strands Using and applying maths Number and algebra Shape, space and measure Handling data

Understanding the way maths progresses (handout) Levels – a few examples of maths in each Levels range from P to 6 in Primary School eg P1- P8, 1C,1B,1A etc End KS1 – most children Level 2 End KS2 – most children Level 4 BUT THERE ARE VARIATIONS AND A CHILD CAN STAY AT ONE LEVEL AND STILL BE MAKING PROGRESS

This is the way we do it… (handout)

Maths language…HUGELY IMPORTANT TO USE A VARIETY (handout)

Targets for pupils … (handout) But remember it is about gradual improvement and not a specific level

Supporting your child at home … (handout)

Solving word problems… (handout)

Maths resources to use out and about… (handout)

Bits and pieces 1… All maths should start with concrete materials and move towards abstract ideas – so when a child is struggling with a new concept, go back to real life, pictures and jottings It is ok for children to count on fingers, it is ok for them to use things like buttons, or pencils to help them work through problems

Bits and pieces 2 … Number lines and number squares should be used to support children’s learning at any stage Fractions and decimals can be introduced using whole and parts of a whole eg pizza slices, chocolate cubes, a ruler and whole centimetres and parts of a centimetres (millimetres)

Times tables …CRUCIAL Lots of ways to learn and have fun

Please, please, please… Give them lots of praise and encouragement Be really positive Talk about how you do different types of maths Ask your child to explain their thinking Do active maths in real life MAKE IT FUN!!