Mathematics

What is Mathematics and Statistics about?

Mathematics is the exploration and the use of patterns and relationships in quantities, space and time.  Statistics is the exploration and use of patterns and relationships in data.  These two are related, but different ways of thinking and solving problems.  Mathematics and statistics use symbols, graphs and diagrams to find and communicate patterns and relationships and create models to represent  both real life and hypothetical situations.

How is Mathematics and Statistics structured in the New Zealand Curriculum?

Mathematics and Statistics consist of three strands:

Number and Algebra – Involves calculating and estimating, using appropriate strategies and methods in flexible ways.  Algebra involves understanding patterns and relationships found in numbers shapes and measures.

Geometry and Measurement – Geometry involves recognising properties and symmetries of shapes and describing position and movement.  Measurement involves using appropriate units to predict and calculate.

Statistics – involves solving problems using appropriate data, – designing investigations, collecting data, finding relationships and trends and communicating findings.

How is Mathematics and Statistics taught at Torbay School?

At Torbay School we will provide coverage of Mathematics and Statistics in New Zealand Curriculum for Year 1-6.  We will provide a balanced needs based programme using the school wide mathematics plan.

  • Teaching and learning is supported by shared learning intentions
  • Appropriate teaching and learning resources, equipment and games will guide and enhance the teaching and learning of Mathematics and Statistics
  • Provide a balanced programme that addresses student needs, builds on prior knowledge and provides opportunities to use new learning with other contexts and/or learning areas
  • Students will be accurately assessed and taught to meet their learning needs at the appropriate level
  • At risk students are identified and are provided with appropriate support
  • All classes will have enriching and productive learning environments with established routines and expectations

The Torbay School Mathematics programme will:

  • Be delivered a minimum of four times per week for at least 45 minutes
  • Be timetabled into the morning session in the Senior School and in the mornings or afternoons in the Junior School
  • Be linked to other learning areas where appropriate
  • Provide time for new learning, practice and consolidation of knowledge and strategies
  • Integrated practical (“hands on”), authentic and relevant contexts where appropriate

Best practice in Mathematics and Statistics at Torbay School

Teachers will:

  • Place and emphasis on the teaching and learning of Number
  • Show evidence of current teaching practices
  • Use a combinations of knowledge and strategy activities when teaching Numeracy (as provided in Numeracy – Book 1 The Number Framework) and other strands with appropriate resources and equipment at all levels
  • Provide a range of practical (“hands on”), authentic and relevant experiences within all Mathematical strands
  • Allow students time to reflect on, and consolidate what they have learnt in Mathematics and Statistics
  • Be guided by the Numeracy teaching model:
  • Provide opportunities for students to present and communicate new learning in a variety of ways
  • Incorporate ICT, questioning and thinking skills to support and extend learning
  • Provide authentic contexts for the use of the schools CARE values and Learner Powers in Mathematics and Statistics
  • Develop and display specific learning intentions, success criteria and student work to enhance student understanding
  • Provide opportunities for students to celebrate their learning in Mathematics

How do we Assess and Report Mathematics and Statistics at Torbay School

Data will be gathered and analysed to ensure we are meeting the individual needs of all students.

Data analysis will inform:

  • The setting and monitoring of school-wide, class, target group or individual targets
  • Reporting to Parents, the Community and the Board of Trustees
  • Student Groupings
  • Students “At Risk” or “Well Above” expectations
  • Long Term/Medium Term planning
  • Next step learning
  • Students to monitor their own progress and set goals

Mathematics and Statistics information will:

  • Provide evidence to guide future teaching and learning
  • Be shared with students and parents honestly
  • Include assessment in a variety of forms (National Standardised Testing, (eg PAT) Pre & Post Tests, OTJ – Overall Teacher Judgements, Peer and Self Assessments, Formative and Summative)
  • Be collected, collated and analysed by teachers and be kept in teacher records,
    student books/profiles and electronically (SMS)