Welcome to the St Albans Maths Blog

What is Maths?

Mathematics uses numbers, shapes, and symbols to communicate patterns and relationships in a variety of ways. Everyone uses math every day - to tell time, to play games, to cook, to design and build things, in sport and more.

There are three main areas of mathematics. They are:

Number and Algebra

• Number involves calculating and estimating, using appropriate mental, written, or machine calculation methods in flexible ways.

• Algebra involves generalising and representing the patterns and relationships found in numbers, shapes, and measures.

Geometry and Measurement

• Geometry involves recognising and using the properties and symmetries of shapes and describing position and movement

• Measurement involves quantifying objects, predicting and calculating and using appropriate units and instruments.

Statistics

• Statistics involves identifying problems, designing investigations, collecting data, analysing and interpreting patterns within data. Findings are then clearly communicated.

• Statistics includes dealing with uncertainty and variation.

In our classroom programs we cover aspects of all three areas every year. Within number is numeracy. Numeracy focuses on place, value, basic facts, knowledge and strategies students need to be successful mathematicians.

In our St Albans School maths programmes, you will see:

• Children grouped according to needs (based on assessment data)

• Building on student's prior knowledge and understanding.

• Teaching skills and strategies through the use of authentic materials and experiences

• Making and encouraging natural links to authentic and meaningful contexts

• Teachers providing practice opportunities to consolidate learning