Numeracy
Our Numeracy program strives to develop students who question, estimate and investigate within a variety of real life mathematical contexts. We endeavour to help all of our students to become confident and competent mathematical thinkers, equipped for life beyond the classroom.
Mathematical ideas have evolved across all cultures over thousands of years, and are constantly developing. Digital technologies are facilitating this expansion of ideas and providing access to new tools for continuing mathematical exploration and invention.
The curriculum focuses on developing increasingly sophisticated and refined mathematical understanding, fluency, logical reasoning, analytical thought and problem-solving skills. At St. Bernadette’s, we believe these capabilities enable students to respond to familiar and unfamiliar situations by employing mathematical strategies to make informed decisions and solve problems efficiently.
Our Numeracy program employs proven research-informed strategies such as Peter Sullivan’s problem solving methodology where goals are articulated, engagement is fostered and connections to the real world are made. We implement such tools as the Mathematics Assessment Interview and Essential Assessment to remain at the forefront of modern mathematical education, which empowers us to journey together to deliver numeracy outcomes for all children in our care.
At St Bernadette’s, teachers:
- use a variety of assessment tools to inform teaching and learning.
- plan small focused teaching groups, independent work and group activities appropriate to the students’ needs.
- analyse data from assessments in order to track the growth of students’ knowledge and skills.
- endeavour to create a classroom environment where students feel confident to cooperate, communicate, inquire and take risks as they are learning.