Ages 7-11 (KS2)

Maths

We focus on transitioning children from basic counting to more complex problem-solving and abstract thinking. To make maths accessible and engaging, we use the following approaches:

1. The Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) Approach

• Concrete: Teaching concepts using physical objects (manipulatives) like Lego bricks, counters, or Base 10 blocks. For example, physically grouping items to understand division.
• Pictorial: Moving to visual representations. We use drawings, bar models, number lines, and pie charts to represent the math problem.
• Abstract: Once the child visualises the concept, we introduce the formal math symbols and equations.

2. Bridging Conceptual Gaps

We focus on:

• Targeting foundational weaknesses: If a child struggles with fractions in Year 5, we can pause to check if they actually mastered division and times tables from Year 3 or 4.
• Scaffolding: Breaking down a massive, intimidating multi-step word problem into smaller, bite-sized tasks.

We structure their lessons around the core strands of the National Curriculum, adapting the complexity based on the student’s year group:

Developing Reasoning and Problem-Solving

As children progress toward Year 6, math exams shift away from simple calculation toward word problems and logical reasoning. We teach specific strategies to tackle these, such as:

• The “RUCSAC” method: Read, Understand, Choose (the operation), Solve, Answer, C
• Encouraging students to “think out loud” to identify exactly where their logic might be tripping up.

Gamification and Interactive Tools

To combat “maths anxiety” we sometimes use digital tools and educational games. They integrate platforms like Times Tables Rock Stars, Mathletics to make practice feel less like a chore and more like a challenge.