Mathematics in the Primary School

1687 Words4 Pages

“A successful learner in mathematics involves constructing understanding through exploration, problem solving, discussion and practical experience and evidentially through a teacher who has a clear grasp of the underlying structure of the mathematics being taught” (Haylock 2010:3). Analysing my personal journey through mathematics will allow me to explore if my experiences have influenced my attitudes towards mathematics. Beginning by exploring the ways in which I was taught as a child, examining what framework was used for the teaching of mathematics, before continuing to explore if education reforms and learning strategies could have influenced by experiences. Concluding by reflecting on my attitude towards mathematics as an adult and trainee teacher, discussing how they will affect or influence the methods of teaching I will adopt. Entering formal education in 1991 I was taught by means of the revised version of mathematical national curriculum 1991 (DfE 2013b) brought about by the Educational Reform Act 1988.The main two principles of the national curriculum were: firstly to ensure all pupils learn and achieve and secondly to promote pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (DES 1987) The basis of therevised curriculum and its associated testing was to standardise the content taught across schools in order to raise standards of attainment in mathematics. With the introduction of a national curriculum came the introduction of national tests SATs, programmes of study, attainment targets and levels. This was the framework for my memories of mathematics to be established (DfE 2013a). My early recollections of being taught mathematics are through teacher explanation followed by an activity to complete to show you we... ... middle of paper ... ...Utusun Ofsted. (2010). Learning: creative approaches that raise standards. Available: http://www.creativitycultureeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/learning-creative- approaches-that-raise-standards-250.pdf. Last accessed 8th Nov 2013. Orton, A (2004). Learning Mathematics: Issues, Theory and Classroom Practice. 3rd ed. London: Continuum. 49-57. Pound L and Lee T (2011). Teaching Mathematics Creatively. Oxon: Routledge Skemp, R (2002). Mathematics in the Primary School. 2nd ed. London: Taylor and Francis . Stewart, I (2013). The Great Mathematical Problems. London : Profile Books William, P. (2008). Independent Review of Mathematics Teaching in Early Years Settings and Primary Schools. Available: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130401151715/https://www.education.go v.uk/publications/eOrderingDownload/Williams%20Mathematics.pdf. Last accessed 1st Nov 2013.

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