At Philip Morant School & College, our Mathematics curriculum is designed to help every student be the best they can be by developing mathematical fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
Mathematics is an integral part of the curriculum where students learn a number of logic skills and the ability to approach problems in numerous ways. To drive aspiration, we aim to equip students with the mathematical skills they will need beyond school and to pique their interest in the subject in the hope they continue to study mathematics further. Our subject is one where confidence is key and we encourage students to explore how mathematics can open doors to many varied careers.
Our curriculum is built on the five core concepts: Number, Algebra, Ratio & Proportion, Geometry & Measure, and Statistics & Probability. The topics within mathematics are closely linked and our curriculum has been designed with careful sequencing to allow the constant interleaving of topics. This deliberate structure helps them appreciate the interlinking of topics in mathematical problems and allows for constant retrieval to deepen knowledge and encourage retention.
Our teaching methods are deliberately structured to promote success by ensuring deep understanding and long-term retention. The curriculum is designed to build on core concepts of mathematics in Years 7 and 8 to give students the foundation they need to build up their knowledge of facts and formulas.
Our teaching methods utilise a structured approach where the teacher first models techniques (I Do) using clear worked examples. Following this, students practice collaboratively with teacher support (We Do) before working independently; this allows students to immediately apply their knowledge and focus on the essential steps and methods required in mathematics. To ensure concepts are grasped and to provide immediate, targeted feedback, mini whiteboards are used regularly in class, allowing teachers to assess student understanding rapidly before moving on to the next concept.
Topics are covered in depth to allow time for students to also focus on complex problem solving. Students are therefore given the ‘tools’ they need to approach multi-step problems and demonstrate how and when to use different methods to solve problems. Furthermore, all classes complete progress checks after every unit to promote recall and revision of topics. Summative assessments take place every term to check student progress and identify any gaps in knowledge which need addressing. Mistakes and misunderstandings are regularly addressed through the use of targeted questions in class and Sparx homework.
We foster an environment that promotes kindness by encouraging students to be positive about the subject. Students are encouraged to try a range of problems and challenge themselves through the curriculum. We prioritise building confidence by creating a supportive learning culture where every student is encouraged to be positive and engage fully, ensuring that everyone feels like they belong.
