Chris and Kelly, two dedicated educators passionate about enhancing maths fluency in schools, recently contributed to a panel discussion focused on this very topic. Here, they shared their perspectives on why developing a strong mathematical foundation is so vital for pupils. Chris, Assistant Principal at Didcot Primary Academy, and Kelly, a teacher at Tennyson Road Primary School, highlighted that fluency in maths extends beyond speed—it includes accuracy, efficiency, and a deep understanding of numbers. During the discussion, they explored how nurturing these skills helps bridge foundational gaps, boosts pupil confidence, and lowers maths anxiety, ultimately laying the groundwork for success both academically and in everyday life.
The Importance of Maths Fluency in Education
Maths fluency is a critical component of a pupil's educational journey, providing the foundation upon which more complex mathematical concepts are built. According to Chris, fluency is not just about speed but also about accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility. It's about having a deep conceptual understanding of numbers and how they can be applied in various contexts. Without this fluency, pupils may struggle with problem-solving and reasoning, which are essential skills in both academic and real-world settings.
Kelly, emphasises that many pupils enter school with foundational gaps in their maths knowledge. By focusing on fluency, schools can help bridge these gaps, ensuring that pupils have the necessary skills to succeed in more advanced maths topics. This foundational knowledge is crucial for boosting pupils' confidence and reducing maths anxiety, which can significantly impact their overall academic performance.
Practical Day-to-Day Strategies for Teachers
Implementing effective fluency strategies in the classroom requires a consistent and structured approach. Chris and Kelly highlighted the importance of integrating fluency practice into daily lessons. At Didcot Primary Academy, pupils engage in morning tasks related to fluency as soon as they enter the classroom. These tasks are designed to reinforce previous lessons and ensure continuous practice.
Kelly's school uses a similar approach with a daily "Fluent in 5" session, where pupils practice basic number facts. This practice is followed by reasoning and problem-solving activities, ensuring that fluency is embedded in every lesson. Both schools use White Rose Maths resources, which provide structured, mastery-style lessons that incorporate fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Engaging Resources and Tools to Boost Fluency
One of the most effective ways to enhance maths fluency is by using engaging resources and tools. Sumdog, an educational platform mentioned by Chris and Kelly, plays a significant role in their schools' fluency strategies. Sumdog offers adaptive learning games that are aligned with the White Rose Maths curriculum, allowing teachers to target specific gaps in pupils' knowledge.
Chris noted that Sumdog's diagnostic tools are particularly useful for identifying areas where pupils may need additional support. This data-driven approach allows teachers to tailor their instruction to meet the needs of individual pupils. Kelly added that the competitive element of Sumdog, such as school-wide competitions, motivates pupils to engage with the platform and practice their maths skills regularly.
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The Role of Consistent Practice in Achieving Fluency
Consistent practice is the cornerstone of developing maths fluency. As Chris pointed out, fluency cannot be achieved through sporadic practice. It's akin to learning a musical instrument; regular, focused practice is more effective than cramming all at once. This consistent practice helps pupils internalise mathematical concepts, making it easier for them to recall and apply these skills in different contexts.
Kelly highlighted the importance of using a variety of resources and strategies to keep practice engaging. For example, incorporating maths activities into other subjects, such as PE and music, can help pupils see the relevance of maths in everyday life. Additionally, using practical, hands-on resources like manipulatives can make abstract concepts more tangible and easier to understand.
Parental Engagement: Tips and Techniques
Parental engagement is a crucial factor in supporting pupils' maths fluency. Chris and Kelly have implemented strategies to involve parents in their children's maths education. Chris's school has introduced parent workshops where parents can learn about the school's approach to maths and receive resources to support their children at home.
Kelly's school also holds parental workshops and has found that involving parents in the learning process helps to reinforce the same mathematical vocabulary and concepts at home. This consistency between home and school can significantly boost a child's confidence and reduce maths anxiety.
Both schools use Sumdog as a homework tool, allowing parents to see their children's progress and engage with their learning. Setting up competitions within the platform can also encourage friendly rivalry and motivate pupils to practice more frequently.
Real-Life Success Stories and Measurable Impact
The positive impact of focusing on maths fluency is evident in the success stories shared by Chris and Kelly. Chris recounted the story of a pupil who initially struggled with maths and had a negative attitude towards the subject. Through consistent practice and the use of engaging resources like Sumdog, this pupil developed a newfound confidence in maths. She now actively participates in class and even lists maths as her favourite subject.
Kelly shared a similar success story of a Year 6 pupil who previously had severe maths anxiety and would often become frustrated with mistakes. Over time, with regular fluency practice and support, this pupil learned to view mistakes as learning opportunities. Her progress was evident in her outstanding SATs results, a testament to the effectiveness of the school's fluency strategies.
These success stories highlight the transformative power of a well-structured fluency programme. By focusing on consistent practice, engaging resources, and parental involvement, schools can help pupils overcome their fears and achieve mathematical success.
Missed the live webinar but want to hear more?
Listen back to the full webinar to hear more about Chris and Kelly's experience and top tips for maths fluency.
