Mathematics

The Nature of Mathematics

Mathematics has two major attributes; it is both a subject in its own right and a service subject. The content of maths presents a logical, rigorous discipline, possessing a progressive body of knowledge and as such should be regarded as a whole and not as a fragmented set of skills. Pupils can gain instant feedback and success from the use of appropriate marking techniques. They can also see progression, which will help build self-esteem and confidence. Pupils should also be made aware of the wider realm of maths including its aesthetic and cultural role in society. Also they will learn about the significance of mathematics in all facets of society and as a universal means of communication. By progression through the curriculum pupils will expand their knowledge of the mathematical world and its uses in the 21st century.

Aims

The aims of the Maths department is to develop:

1. A positive attitude to Maths, including confidence, enjoyment, and perseverance.
2. A willingness and ability to work co-operatively and independently.
3. An ability to understand mathematical ideas and to express them in a variety of ways.
4. An appreciation of the ways maths is used.
5. An appreciation of the place of maths in society.
6. To use their mathematical skills in their daily lives.

Strategies for Maths

Mathematics by its nature lends success to be easily reinforced due to the lack of subjectivity, the limited amount of written work and the easy and obvious measurability. It can also help pupils in their social development through the use of group work activities.

Some of our pupils have educational needs in numeracy and many have an emotional fear of Maths. Despite all the advantages that Maths can bring, the typical Breckenbrough boy will still enter the classroom with a negative attitude and a determination not to work. The maths department has a number of strategies and differentiated tasks to address these problems.

These include Individual Study Plans, Use of ICT, Use of 1 to 1 support both for those who struggle and those that need extending. For this reason we have 4 members of staff that teach to various groups around the school.