2. Handbook
Includes lots of important
information about teaching Maths
• CPA approach – concrete,
pictorial, abstract
• Children should have access to
practical resources
• Problem solving using the bar
model
• Written methods policy with
examples of addition,
subtraction, multiplication and
division calculations
Concrete
Abstract
Pictorial
3. Planning
Planning documents to be used alongside
the handbook:
• Curriculum maps
• Medium term plans
• Short term planning format
4. Rainbow and Planets
Challenges
• Targets for each colour of the rainbow
(from Red to Gold) and then planets
(from Neptune to the Stars).
• All children (Year 2 to 6) should already
have a target card. New children will
need to be assessed to decide on
starting colour/planet.
• Children are tested in school and their
target card is dated if they show they
can meet that target.
• When all spaces are dated, children
receive a certificate and wristband in
our Friday assembly.
• Targets are sent home whenever a new
colour/planet is started.
5. Assessments
• Years 1 -6 will use the Cornerstones
Assessments
• Foundation will use their medium term
plans to make judgements
• Years 2 and 6 to use additional Sample
and previous years papers as deemed
necessary.
Editor's Notes
AMY
We use a CPA approach to teaching Maths at St Christopher.
Concrete – use of practical resources (could be any resource, for example, biscuits, buttons, counters or Diennes).
Pictorial – using simple pictures to represent what is happening and to calculate.
Abstract – mentally representing what is happening and using higher level written methods.
The written methods part of the policy is very important as we want to avoid inconsistencies and different methods as children progress through school.
Some examples show ‘U’ for units – children up to and including Year 4 use ‘O’ for ones.
The handbook was updated part way through last year.
Examples of concrete and pictorial stages for addition and subtraction – to make this clearer
Further examples for multiplication and division – including the importance of teaching division as grouping and sharing
A version of the written methods is on the school website – useful for parents to refer to.
AMY
Curriculum maps show an overview of the year with the objectives to be covered in each area of Maths and progression across the year.
The dark blue box shows progression in the numbers expected to be used and the areas of Maths covered within that half term.
Previous and next year group curriculum maps should also be referred to.
Medium term plans offer suggested teaching methods and activities for each objective.
Coverage is important but both the curriculum maps and medium term plans should be used as is best for the children in your group/class and are flexible in terms of time spent on each objective.
The short term planning format is explained within the handbook.
AMY
To develop the mental maths skills of children at St Christopher, the Rainbow Challenge was introduced to all year groups last year.
RACHEL
Arithmetic test 1: is designed to be used during the first half term should you wish
Tests will back up Teacher judgement
Mention using and applying – achievement team and looking at additional resources
