This year has seen the introduction of a new NSW Mathematics Syllabus across Years 3-6. While the content has not changed much, teachers now have access to a range of research-based resources and strategies to help students understand and master mathematical concepts and skills. There is a focus on frequently revisiting key knowledge through a “daily review” and allowing students to practice their skills using engaging games and activities that can be monitored by the teachers.
This week, students in Year 5 have been playing the game “snake eyes” to practice mental addition and subtraction. The use of mini whiteboards, online dice rollers and calculators for checking allows each child to readily access helpful resources. Other activities have focused on understanding concepts such as factors, multiples and rounding numbers. Playing games in pairs or small groups also allows children to learn from one another. Direct instruction lessons are also vitally important to help the children to see and hear the correct language and methods of working out problems.
Although our students have a numerous amazing resources at their fingertips, there is still the need to learn our basic number facts and time tables. We continue to encourage each child to spend time memorising these at home!
Mr Peter Butchatsky
Junior School Teacher - Year 5 Team Leader
