Maths
Maths Curriculum Intent
“The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics.” Paul Halmos
Big Maths is at the heart of our Maths Curriculum and was chosen for Peckover School as it teaches children in manageable steps and takes them on a clear journey of progression. Each small step of conceptual learning makes up part of the jigsaw for an understanding of mathematics that is deep rooted and meaningful, providing the skills needed for our children’s futures. Big Maths guides teachers’ planning and has developed staff subject knowledge of the expectations of their year group, but also the knowledge that comes before and after each stage. Big Maths divides the mathematics curriculum into two parts; CLIC (counting, learn it, it’s nothing new and calculation) and SAFE (shape, amounts, fractions and exploring data). These areas are revisited weekly in CLIC & SAFE tests, ensuring children can apply their learning confidently and accurately. The Big Maths approach is a mastery approach, where all children have the opportunity to access the same step of learning, but build on their understanding through a range of experiences and tasks.
“Primary schools which fail to teach times tables by heart are condemning children to a lifetime struggling with numbers”
At Peckover, we recognise that basic number skills are the essential foundation of problem solving. To develop children’s times table knowledge we ensure regular skip counting, opportunities to practise in weekly tables tests and regular games/contests for quick and accurate reciting. Our aim is to ensure learning is committed to long term memory allowing automaticity and number fluency.
Implementation
Maths is taught in carefully planned sequences, supported by Big Maths, which build on prior learning and work in small steps towards a deeper understanding. Sequences are adapted by staff to ensure all learners are progressing through the same step, although perhaps not completing the same activity, Our mastery approach ensures all children are exposed to building on skills for reasoning, problem solving and fluency. This helps us to achieve our aim of securing solid foundations for all.