The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
The syllabus consists of the following strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
The Maths Factory was developed and implemented as a result of analysing student results from PAT Maths, Check-In and NAPLAN. It was clear that students lacked the online navigation skills and problem solving skills in order to answer questions correctly under test conditions. Students from Years 1-5were targeted to work in small withdrawal groups 2 times per week over a term.
From analysing the student surveys, 96% felt that The Maths Factory helped them navigate and learn skills to answer questions in an on-line test. Our initial goal was for students to improve by at least 10% in PAT Maths. 88% of students improved at least 10% with some students experiencing growth of up to 50%.
Students were able to articulate that as a result of being part of The Maths Factory, they were less anxious when taking tests, they developed greater perseverance and found online testing to be an enjoyable experience.
