Purpose of study
Mathematics is a creative and highly inter-connected discipline that has been developed over centuries, providing the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems. It is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. A high-quality mathematics education provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject.
(National Curriculum 2014)
Aims
The aims of the 2014 National Curriculum for mathematics are for our pupils to:
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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.
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reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language.
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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.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework 2014 sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old and supports an integrated approach to early learning. This is supported by ‘Development Matters’, a non-statutory guidance.
The EYFS Framework in relation to mathematics, aims for our pupils to:
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develop and improve their skills in counting
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understand and use numbers
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calculate simple addition and subtraction problems
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describe shapes, spaces, and measure
The purpose of mathematics in Northburn is to develop:
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positive, enthusiastic and inquisitive attitudes towards the subject
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an awareness and appreciation of the relevance and importance of mathematics in the real world
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competence and confidence in using and applying mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills
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an ability to solve problems, to reason, to think logically and to work systematically and accurately
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initiative and motivation to work both independently and co-operatively with others
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confident communication of maths where pupils ask and answer questions, openly share work and learn from mistakes
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an ability to use and apply mathematics across the curriculum and in real life
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an understanding of mathematics through a process of enquiry and investigation
Thus, children will be able:
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to make an active contribution to their own learning, by developing the skills of independence and enquiry
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to develop a clear understanding of the language of mathematics
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to become thinkers and problem-solvers
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to develop an understanding of the ways in which information is gathered and presented
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to develop a positive and confident attitude towards mathematics
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to develop logical thinking and reasoning, enabling then to record work clearly and in a variety of ways
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to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding needed in daily life