How we Teach Maths at Blackhorse

Our Intent for Mathematics at Blackhorse: Why do we organise our maths curriculum in the way we do?

For children to succeed in mathematics they need to be able to achieve number fluency, and reasoning skills.

We aim for every child to become fluent mathematicians. This means that we work to ensure that all children can:

recall key number facts (times tables & number bonds) instantly.
use the four number operations accurately and effectively.
understand the number system, particularly place value and fractions, decimals & percentages.

We aim for every child to develop mathematical reasoning. This means that we work to ensure that all children can:

Work systematically to solve number problems.
Use trial and improvement
Work logically.
Spot mathematical patterns.
Visualise mathematical problems using a range of mathematical models.
Working backwards and use inverse operations.

Implementation: How we achieve fluency and reasoning.

Maths lessons are divided into 2 parts at Blackhorse Primary School:

Big Maths is used to teach fluency.

The first is a 20 minute session known as 'Big Maths' where the children learn the core counting, calculating and rapid recall skills which underpin all mathematics.

This click on the links below to find out more:

Big Maths at Blackhorse

How we teach counting, calculations & rapid recall as part of the daily maths lesson.

Singapore Maths

The second 40 minutes of each maths lesson is taught using a Singapore Maths approach, using a scheme called 'Maths? No Problem!'. This is a maths mastery approach which focuses on reasoning, conceptual understanding and problem-solving.

Click here to find out about the range teaching approaches used using this second part of the daily maths lesson and watch the video below to find out how a typical Singapore Maths sessions is taught.

Singapore Maths Model Lesson

Bar Modelling at Blackhorse

Bar Modelling is an approach which the children at Blackhorse use to solve problems. It allows them to 'see' the problem and then to break it down so that they can then solve it. Bar modelling is used in different ways in different year groups. Click on the documents below to find out more.