Whole School Approach to Mental and Written Calculation
A Guide for Teachers and Parents
It is intended that this online and downloadable document will support
schools to compile their own whole-school approaches to mental and written
calculation.
Click here to view the document. (512K - This could take some time on a
slow connection)
Click here to download it as a zipped Word file
The National Numeracy Strategy Framework document provides considerable support in terms of the planning and teaching of the mathematics curriculum. However, it is necessary for schools to decide upon methods of recording mental calculation that 'mirror' the mental strategies the children are actually using. Similarly, the transition from mental calculation, supported by informal jottings, needs careful consideration.
Despite the creation of a genuine national curriculum for mathematics, there will be differences in recording calculation from school to school. Moreover, individual teachers will devise their own methods of representing calculations, which are meaningful to their pupils.
It is not intended that this document should replace existing school documentation, rather we hope it will act as a basis for what the school creates for itself. In addition to helping schools develop their approach to calculation, this document can also be used to inform parents concerning the recording of calculation.
As the document can be edited, schools can choose which sections to share with parents. It is advised that schools amend this document so that it reflects what is happening at classroom level. This is particularly important if sections are to be shared with parents.
We would welcome feedback on the document. I hope you will find it of use. Please use our websites guestbook / feedback facility or alternatively you can contact Gatesheads' Numeracy Team on telephone number 0191 482 4133, extensions 142, 110, 186 & 182 or by fax on 0191 482 6500.
If you have any general queries / observations about Numeracy content please contact mick.young@Northerngrid.org.uk