Freshwater Bay Primary School believes that effective Mathematics lessons should be built on four key cornerstones: mathematical process, content knowledge, problem solving, and common mathematical language. By planning lessons around these parameters, using the Western Australian curriculum, we ensure that all students engage in content-rich lessons with process, language, and mathematical strategies embedded within them. An instructional numeracy block is followed in every classroom, focusing on core concept delivery using daily reviews and evidence-based programs which adhere to our common understanding of the core skills students need to be effective in Mathematics. Opportunities for extension and remediation are available in class through differentiation of key content as well as through additional programs such as the Mathematics Extension Program.
Whole-School Mathematics Program – Maths Trek
Maths Trek is utilised as a whole-school program for Mathematics in all classes. Maths Trek facilitates the delivery of lessons using the evidence-based approach of a gradual release model. This ensures the learning of new concepts is scaffolded for all students with teacher-led learning and group discussion preceding individual demonstration of mastery. Math Trek provides the four mathematical cornerstones that we believe are imperative to the fundamental teaching of Mathematics. Math Trek is used as a baseline for the teaching and learning of grade-level content in every year, and is supplemented with online learning programs, daily content reviews, and teacher-led programming. Each Maths Trek book contains grade-appropriate content, concept revision, common language, problem-solving and mathematics investigations. The problem-solving activities and investigations are interleaved throughout each book and give all students the opportunity to practice new skills in real-world contexts. Assessment within the book also gives teachers an ongoing understanding of student progress throughout the year. Maths Trek is linked to the new Australian Curriculum Version 9, ensuring that all curriculum elements are comprehensively and consistently covered each year.
Whole School Mathematics Online Consolidation – Matific
Matific is an online learning tool that is used to consolidate concepts being taught in class and foster deeper mathematical understanding through stimulating activities. Activities are assigned by teachers for use in class or at home to ensure students are reinforcing content linked to class learning. Matific builds student confidence and grows fluency through repetition and problem solving. Matific provides teachers and students with responsive feedback, through demonstrating areas for growth, repetition and intervention.
Senior Years Online Enrichment – ALEKS
Assessment & Learning in Knowledge Spaces (ALEKS) is a web-based assessment and learning system which uses adaptive questioning to determine the mathematical knowledge and needs of each individual student. ALEKS instructs students on content at their own point of need, then assesses understanding of the topics covered, ensuring that mastery has been met and knowledge has been retained. ALEKS is utilised as a tool for enrichment in our senior years and is available for use at home. It is supplementary to our core program within the school.