In Thorntree Primary, Numeracy and Mathematics is a daily teaching activity and is based around Glasgow Counts, which is used across the city. Our main aims are:
To develop a positive ‘can-do’ attitude to Numeracy and Mathematics, in which all pupils gain success and demonstrate resilience and enjoyment.
To gain mathematical understanding through direct teaching of Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approaches.
To develop an ability to talk with confidence, strengthen visible thinking and make use of the correct mathematical language and vocabulary.
To meet the needs of all learners through differentiated challenge and support.
To develop the ability to think clearly and logically, with independence of thought and flexibility of mind.
To encourage the effective use of Numeracy and Mathematics as a tool in a wide range of activities within and out with school and, subsequently, adult life.
In Thorntree Primary, all pupils are encouraged to use CPA approaches, regardless of their age, and problem solving is at the heart of every lesson. Pupils enjoy a variety of learning and teaching opportunities, which includes active learning, collaborative work, outdoor learning opportunities and independent tasks.
Throughout the year, pupils link Numeracy and Mathematics skills to the World of Work and opportunities are created to further highlight the importance of Numeracy and Mathematics as skills for life. Maths Week Scotland (celebrated in September) and Financial Fortnight (November/ December) are also regular features of our teaching programme and help to support the delivery of our aims.
Pupils regularly use Digital Technology in Numeracy and Mathematics lessons and also have access to the following programmes in school and at home: SUMDOG - P1-7 and Times Table Rock Stars - P4-7.
Pupils are supported in a variety of ways in Numeracy and Mathematics and individual needs are identified, with support given both in and out of class by Class Teachers, Support for Learning Workers and other members of staff.
Targeted Intervention Groups
Our Challenge Leader of Learning, Mr McClorey works with Targeted Intervention Groups in Primary 4 and Primary 7, which aims to support pupils’ knowledge, confidence and skills in Numeracy and Mathematics. Mr Fraser also works with Targeted Intervention Groups in Primary 5 and 6.
Glasgow Counts Together
For the second year running, we are thrilled to be working with Glasgow’s Improvement Challenge and Eastbank Academy on this partnership project. Each week, S6 coaches work with pupils from Primary 3-5 to raise pupil engagement, enjoyment and confidence in Numeracy and Mathematics.
Count Club
This year, we have also started ‘Count Club’ on a Friday morning for our Primary 2 pupils. Count Club offers the opportunity for parents/ carers to spend time with their child in school and play a range of specially selected maths games together. Research has shown the importance of involving parents/ carers in their child’s education and that playing games can support children’s mathematical understanding, develop their use of mathematical language and most importantly, it is an opportunity to have some fun
Thorntree Primary School 55 Cobinshaw Street Glasgow G32 6XL Phone: 0141 774 4966 Fax: 0141 774 5724