Calculation methods from UFS to Year 6 What can you do to support your child at home?

What happens in school New calculation policy The new curriculum has been implemented across both Key stages. Throughout KS1 (UFS, Year 1 & Year 2) maths is taught through using practical equipment. This helps them understand the early concepts of maths and allows them (when they are ready) to move onto formal written methods.

Using practical activities to support the early concepts of division. Children are taught the early concepts using practical activities before moving on to the more concrete, formal methods. These written calculation methods are taken from the new curriculum.

Formal written methods are used when children are ready. The calculation policy has been developed and changed, so children start with the early concepts, and then build on these skills as they progress through school.

The new curriculum Problem solving skills To encourage independent learning year 2 and KS2 (year 3, 4, 5 & 6) all carryout fortnightly independent problem solving activities. This helps children apply the formal written calculation methods in a context.

Independent problem solving Through using problems, children can apply taught skills to answer maths puzzles.

Teaching problem solving skills within lessons Children are now expected to use and apply problem solving skills and investigative skills. Because of these changes children are being taught the problem solving skills in lessons more regularly, and then they independently apply these in their maths assessment books. This also develops the mathematical vocabulary they use.

Using talking and learning partners There’s now more time and opportunities for children to discuss puzzles, and ways to solve these puzzles through regular planned activities.

Can you answer these SATS questions?

Did you get it right? 1 mark each for any two of these: 240 ÷ 10 = 24 48 ÷ 2 = 24 120 ÷ 5 = 24 If all three solutions are given, mark the two in the boxes (or the first two) only.

What about a year 6 question?

How well did you do?

In the classrooms In each classroom there will be activities out to model the use of our calculation policy. In UFS children will be using numbers and equipment to support the early concept of number. Year 1 & Year 2 will be adding and subtracting using the early calculation methods. Year 3 & 4 will be multiplying, following the formal calculation methods. Year 5 & 6 will be multiplying and dividing using the formal methods.

You can go to any classroom to observe what the children are doing. Every 10 minutes the bell will ring so you can move if you choose to. After 3 changes of room the bell will ring twice. Then you are invited back into the hall where you will receive a pack. This pack will contain a copy of the calculation policy and 2 booklets with ideas for supporting your child at home.