Maths in Year 5 is taught by specialist teacher, Mr P. McMahon. The objective of lessons is to encourage those who feel that maths is not for them (and there are a few) and at the same time, to reinforce the learning of those who lean more towards mathematical thinking.                                                                                                        

Each lesson brings new challenges to which the children rise and it is not long before those reluctant mathematicians feel that their understanding of the subject is increasing with each passing week.The year begins with work on place value, leading on to the four rules of number. The children soon begin to recognise the importance of ‘bite size chunks’ and the thought of eating that ‘whole chicken’ as opposed to the far more manageable ‘nuggets’, becomes second nature. Lessons are interspersed with work on the electronic white board and ICT plays a part in the differentiation processes which tailors the work towards the individual. 

The children enjoy applying their mathematical skills to all walks of the curriculum. Differentiation Day offered the opportunity for the pupils to experience a number of learning styles. Identifying shapes in the grounds of the school led to much lively discussion!

 Having mastered the 4 rules of number, the pupils put their skills to good use. The varied topics taught give the children a good insight into how to use their knowledge and we never need an excuse to roll up our sleeves and ‘investigate’!

Regular monitoring ensures that pupils do not waver and with additional support offered through our Classroom Assistant, Mrs Galloway, Maths Catch Up and Maths Club we strive to offer as may learning opportunities as possible in order to strengthen the children’s knowledge and understanding.

Maths in Year 5 is fun and many of those children who show some hesitancy at the start of the year, finish with a flourish and a real love of the subject. The readiness to move on to Year 6 is testimony to this.