Mathematics

Hands-on Learning in Mathematics

In Year 6, we have been working on fluency when calculating with decimals and the connection between equivalent fractions, decimals, and percentages. Have a look at these photos of our students working with Play-Doh Decimals:

Using hands-on manipulatives, especially for abstract concepts such as decimal place value, is essential for developing students' understanding. Once learners can physically sense what they’re studying, abstract ideas and difficult concepts become easier to understand. Using tactile objects that students can touch and feel link up neurological pathways in the brain and create better understanding, retention, and memory.

You’re never too old to play with Play-Doh! 

Professional Learning- Exploring Mathematical Pedagogies

We, the staff at St James, consider ourselves as continuous learners. We are committed to achieving the highest standards possible, based on reflective practice, using data, research, and evidence to ensure a positive impact on student learning. 

Teacher professional learning provides opportunities to examine and implement evidence-based teaching strategies that promote deep learning for all students and maximise learning outcomes.

This term, a group of Year 3-6 teaching staff participated in a mathematics professional learning seminar on Challenge and Differentiation led by Emeritus Professor Peter Sullivan. Following this, teachers planned and initiated a 10-week teaching sprint on strategies shared by the presenter.

The program examined how productively challenging tasks can be an ideal way to initiate learning through problem-solving and support student cognitive development. It also explored a range of strategies for including and engaging all students in mathematics learning.  

NAPLAN 

NAPLAN testing begins for our Year 3 and 5 students on Tuesday, 10th of May. 

NAPLAN is a point-in-time assessment that allows parents and carers to see how their child is progressing in literacy and numeracy against the national standard and compared with their peers throughout Australia. At the classroom level, NAPLAN can provide additional information to support teachers’ professional judgment about student progress.

The Numeracy NAPLAN assessment will take place on Monday, 16th May. We wish our students all the best! 

St James Maths Olympiads - Competition Two

We take our hats off to our St James Maths Olympiad team, who have just participated in their second competition of the year. The Olympiad problems posed are no mean feat, and we are incredibly proud of our students’ dedication, growth mindset, positive attitude, and ability to tackle complex problems. Congratulations, and well done! 

Can you solve Mrs. Mihalicek’s Problem of the Week?

Calling all mathematicians! Can you solve this problem with your family? All entries will receive recognition in the following newsletter and a sticker from Mrs. Mihalicek. Email your solutions to bmihalicek@stjamesbrighton.catholic.edu.au.

Warm regards,

Belinda Mihalicek

Mathematics Leader

bmihalicek@stjamesbrighton.catholic.edu.au