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Old Road School

Ysgol Hen Heol

Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Healthy & Safe

Mathematics and Numeracy

Mathematics is an international discipline, and numeracy, the application of mathematics, plays a critical part in our private, social and civic lives, and in the economic health of the nation.

 

We ensure that mathematics and numeracy experiences are engaging, exciting and accessible for learners, and that they ensure that learners develop mathematical resilience (the ability to embrace challenge as a positive aspect of learning).

 

In the early years, play forms an important part in the development of mathematics and numeracy, enabling our learners to solve problems, explore ideas, establish connections and collaborate with others.

 

In later years, learners have opportunities to work both independently and collaboratively to build on the foundations established in the early years.

 

For learners of all ages, real-life examples drawn from the local, national and international environment help them make connections between the concrete and the abstract.

 

Real-life contexts are used to introduce and explore mathematical concepts, as well as to consolidate them. Teaching introduces a reasoning and problem-solving approach to all mathematics and numeracy experiences to support the development both of positive dispositions and of the four purposes of the curriculum, as well as the development of the mathematical proficiencies.

 

What Matters in Mathematics and Numeracy

 

1. The number system is used to represent and compare relationships between numbers and quantities.

2. Algebra uses symbol systems to express the structure of mathematical relationships.

3. Geometry focuses on relationships involving shape, space and position, and measurement focuses on quantifying phenomena in the physical world.

4. Statistics represent data, probability models chance, and both support informed inferences and decisions.

 

Progression in Mathematics and Numeracy

 

In the Mathematics and Numeracy Area of Learning and Experience, the model of progression is based on the development of five interdependent proficiencies, outlined below. This model of progression can be considered as both longitudinal and cross-sectional. To ensure progress in any mathematics learning, proficiencies should be developed and connected in time and should also develop over time.

 

Conceptual understanding

 

1. Communication using symbols.

2. Fluency.

3. Logical reasoning.

4. Strategic competence.