Maths

At Queensgate, we want our children to become mathematicians, not just arithmeticians, where children can see and enjoy the challenge of maths, make connections and can go beyond purely procedural maths.  We are committed to ensuring that our children are able to recognise the importance of maths in the wider world and that they are also able to use their mathematical skills and knowledge confidently in a range of different contexts.  Our goal is that children become confident and resilient learners in maths and that they demonstrate positivity, curiosity and engagement. We follow the White Rose Maths scheme throughout the school (see our Maths Long Term below.)

Our children are introduced to the processes of calculation by building a sequence following a C-P-A approach. The C-P-A approach stands for Concrete - Pictorial – Abstract. This means that throughout the school, we see children using concrete equipment and pictures to support their understanding of more abstract concepts.

Over time children learn how to use models and images, such as Dienes, place value counters, bar models and tens frames, to support their mental and informal written methods of calculation. As children’s mental methods are strengthened and refined, so too are their informal written methods. These methods become more efficient and succinct and lead to efficient written methods that can be used more generally. By the end of Year 6 children are equipped with mental and written methods that they understand and can use correctly.

When faced with a calculation, children are able to decide which method is most appropriate and have strategies to check its accuracy. They will do this by asking themselves:

• Can I do this in my head?
• Can I do this in my head using drawing or jottings?
• Do I need to use a pencil and paper procedure?

At whatever stage in their learning, and whatever method is being used, it must still be underpinned by a secure and appropriate knowledge of number facts, along with those mental skills that are needed to carry out the process and judge if it was successful.

Click on our Maths Teaching cycle to gain an understanding of how maths lessons at Queensgate are planned.