Mathematics

Amis and Objectives

It is our aim to ensure that our children are ready for their next phase in education.

Children learn to:

• Use and understand mathematical language
• Estimating and measuring
• Finding ways to solve problems
• Using, recognising and ordering numbers
• Describing and naming shapes
• Thinking logically
• To know the 'Fiveness' of 5
• Follow instructions accurately to build a 3D model
   

Principles

Children start their educational journey to becoming numerate with us at nursery and this has far reaching implications for lifelong confidence and well-being.

The process of becoming numerate is a systematic process and should be given as much attention as children learning to read.  In nursery we offer a systematic approach to mathematics through our focused Maths sessions called 'Number Sense'. In turn we see the environment as the third teacher therefore we offer children a variety of experiences to promote problem solving, child led inquiry and consolidation.

Growth Mind-set

In nursery we teach the children about Growth Mind-set theory ‘the theory of not yet’ this involves children understanding that new learning is not easy it involves building new connections in their brain.  Below is a link to the work of Carol Dweck and ‘the theory of not yet’. Our aim is that children leave nursery school resilient, inquisitive, active learners with a thirst for learning.

Practices and Procedures

Mathematics sessions are taught daily as a discrete lesson, in small, family groups.  The children then have a focused Maths settling activity.  Teaching is multi- sensory and is applied throughout the nursery curriculum, to ensure the maximum retention of taught skills.

• appreciating pattern, and relationships in mathematics
• exploring, comparing and describing shapes, quantities, height, etc.
• finding ways to solve mathematical problems e.g. estimating, measuring
• learning to use and understand mathematical language
• understanding and using number
• perceptual subitising and conceptual subitising
• calculating simple addition and subtraction problems