"Mater Dei Matters"

Mathematics

YEAR 7 MATHS PATHWAY - THE JOURNEY

The average Year 7 class has an eight year spread of ability, ranging from students with number expression difficulty to students who have a deep mathematical understanding (Figure 1). This wide range of levels has created challenges in the past, however, with the introduction of Maths Pathway to Mater Dei Catholic College, we have noted significant positive changes. The most significant being that teachers are now able to personalise the learning experience for every student in the classroom. Students access the content they are ready for based on their diagnosed level.

Figure 1. The spread of abilities in the typical mathematics classroom

 

The Annual Maths Pathway Report has provided some affirming data based on the students performance here at the Mater Dei Catholic College. Before we explore the data, for comparative reasons it is important to remember that the research shows that the average student not participating in the Maths Pathway program will achieve 0.54 years worth of learning in a calendar year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KEY INFOGRAPHICS ON MATHEMATICAL LEARNING AT

MATER DEI CATHOLIC COLLEGE

For those who are interested in some more detailed mathematical statistics, the following graph paints a positive picture for the mathematical learning at the College.

  • The middle (median) student at Mater Dei Catholic College is achieving at a level higher than that of the highest performing students in a typical mathematics classroom
  • 60% of students at Mater Dei Catholic College are out performing the highest performing students in a traditional classroom setting
  • The learning of the top 25% of students at Mater Dei Catholic College is progressing at a rate that is almost double the rate of that of all students in a traditional classroom.

 

As is clearly evident from the data, the students are making significant progress with their learning. Our challenge as teaching professional here at the College is to continue to strive to improve what we do for the betterment of student learning.

 

Mr Kurt McPherson | Mathematics KLA Leader