Mathematics

At St James we foster a positive and powerful approach to mathematics, ensuring every primary student develops the core knowledge, skills, and confidence to be successful mathematicians, able to use Maths in their everyday lives. Our Mathematics program is structured to provide a balanced, rigorous, and engaging learning experience.

In the crucial early years (Prep-Year 2), we implement the Explicit Mathematics Program (EMP). This approach is fundamental to building a deep, conceptual understanding of all aspects of Mathematics.

In Years 3 - 6, we implement lessons utilising OCHRE resources. These lessons are targeted on specific learning needs. Students engage in pre- and post- assessments to identify where a student is working and at and to determine their progress and achievement.

Learning of Mathematics at St James the Apostle includes:

• The use of concrete materials to ensure conceptual understanding is developed

• Clear routines for active participation of all students

• Explicit Teaching: Key mathematical strategies, terminology, and algorithms are taught explicitly by the teacher. This includes clear explanations, modelling of worked examples, and opportunities for guided practice.

• A focus on fluency: Direct Instruction is vital for developing number fluency (speed and accuracy with basic facts) and procedural reliability, which frees up cognitive load for complex problem-solving.

Our program integrates these elements to cover all strands of the Victorian Curriculum v2.0, ensuring students develop:

• Conceptual Understanding: Knowing why a mathematical process works.

• Procedural Fluency: Knowing how and when to execute a mathematical procedure.

• Problem-Solving: Applying mathematical thinking to solve real-world and complex problems.

By combining the conceptual depth of hands-on, active learning with the efficiency and precision of our instruction, we equip students with the necessary tools to become confident, flexible, and capable mathematical thinkers.