Mathematics

Mathematics at Cherry Garden is taught daily through discrete learning sequences, alongside opportunities to apply mathematical learning across the wider curriculum where appropriate.New mathematical concepts are introduced and embedded using the ‘Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract’ approach, which allows all children to explore, understand and use these concepts thoroughly before applying to a variety of problems. Arithmetic and basic maths skills are practised daily to enhance fluency and develop children’s ability to make connections to other areas of the maths curriculum.

 

Maths in EYFS

Children in Reception follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum. Within this curriculum, the children will explore number and numerical patterns. For more information please go to out EYFS page.In EYFS, children develop early mathematical understanding through a combination of adult-led sessions and continuous provision. Independently accessible resources support exploration of number, shape, measure and pattern. This child-initiated learning is complemented by regular focused teaching.

 

Maths Curriculum

Our curriculum follows a mastery approach, where key concepts are introduced, revisited and developed over time to ensure depth of understanding. All children access the same core learning, with adaptive teaching used to provide support, scaffold or challenge as required. Teachers predominantly plan from the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) in line with the National Curriculum, supported by carefully selected additional resources. Learning is organised into small steps, enabling children to build knowledge cumulatively.

 

Children in Years 1 to 6 are taught a daily mathematics lesson. The curriculum is designed to enable children to work confidently with a range of mathematical concepts. The learning content is arranged into the following areas:

• Number and place value
• Addition and subtraction
• Multiplication and division
• Fractions (including decimals from Year 4 onwards)
• Measurement
• Geometry
• Statistics (from Year 2 onwards)
• Ratio and proportion (Year 6 only)
• Algebra (Year 6 only)

 

Across all year groups:

• New concepts are introduced using concrete materials before moving to pictorial and abstract representations (CPA).

• Misconceptions are anticipated and addressed explicitly.

• Mathematical oracy is prioritised, with children taught to use accurate mathematical vocabulary.

• Reasoning Talk and Number Talks are used regularly to promote discussion, justification and deeper thinking.

• Answer–Prove–Explain strategies support children in articulating their thinking.

 

CPA Approach

 

The mathematics curriculum does not stand in isolation and teachers seek out opportunities for children to apply their knowledge in real life contexts and across other areas of the curriculum. For example, cooking provides many opportunities for children to measure whilst a science investigation will allow them to record and present statistics.

 

If you would like more information about the way maths is taught please speak with your child's class teacher or our maths leader, Mrs Barratt.

Times Tables

To support the learning, understanding and recall of times tables, every child (from years 2-6) has their own individual Times Tables Rockstars account. This is a fun and engaging way for children to practise their tables in school and at home. Please use this link to log in to your child’s account.

Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check

The multiplication times table check (MTC), which was introduced in academic year 2021/22, is a statutory test that Year 4 pupils take in the Summer term. Under the National Curriculum, it is expected that children know all of their times tables up to 12 x 12 by the end of Year 4.

For more details about this check and how to support at home, please see the letter below for academic year 23/24.

Letter