mathematics

Maths @ Scoresby Primary School

It is important to us that students develop mathematical understandings; are confident in, and can apply mathematical knowledge to solve problems in a variety of ways. We promote understanding of the role of mathematics in life, society and work; and equip students to creatively investigate, interpret, understand and represent mathematical situations and acquire new knowledge and skills when needed.

The mathematics curriculum is based on the Victorian Curriculum. It is organised around the interaction of three content strands and four proficiency strands. The content strands, which describe what is to be taught and learnt, are Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. The proficiency strands, which describe how content is explored or developed are Understanding, Fluency, Problem Solving, and Reasoning

How we teach maths at sps

The Mathematics Curriculum is based on the Victorian Curriculum and follows our SPS Mathematics Scope and Sequence.

At Scoresby Primary School we teach Maths via two main teaching methods:

PONT (Point of Need Teaching)
Individual classes

Point Of Need Teaching (PONT) is a method of teaching where we look at cohort data, and students are placed into groups across the level according to their needs, which are determined by Essential Assessment data and or the Maths Online Interview testing . As a team, teachers discuss what each group will address during PONT Maths, then teach teachers plan independently. The children spend the maths lesson with the level teacher, learning their next progression of knowledge in the concept being taught. This method of teaching has been very successful at Scoresby PS.

Individual classes If a decision is made to teach maths through the classroom (individual classes) then planning occurs as a team to ensure consistency.

Teams decide, based on assessments completed prior to the unit, which of the 2 teaching methods is most suitable for the concept being taught.

All students in Foundation are tested using the Maths Online Interview (MOI) and this is a continuing practice until the student is able to complete the assessment. Using the MOI insures that we minimise any gaps in mathematical understandings.

Students’ mathematical skills and understandings are developed so that they can confidently and competently participate in everyday life. Digital Technologies is used appropriately and effectively to support the learning of mathematics. The teaching of mathematics is a discreet and explicit component of the curriculum taught by classroom teachers. The development of numeracy skills is an integral component of all learning experiences and is incorporated across the curriculum, by all teaching staff. Students are scheduled a minimum of 5 hours per week for explicit mathematics instruction.