Mathematics

Foundation - Year 2 Game of the Fortnight: 

Please find attached a video below of a wonderful game you can introduce and engage with your child at home. 

Game: Blackhole

Focusing on Addition and Subtraction

Equipment: Pen and paper

Possible questions to ask while playing: 

• Is that the best order to add up your numbers? 
• Is there an easier way that you could do it? 
• What goes with ____ to make 10? 
• Why did you place your _____ there? 
• What would you do differently next time you play? 

In the spotlight: Multiplication in Years 3-6 

When teaching multiplication in Years 3 to 6, we explicitly teach and encourage students to use multiple strategies to solve problems. Providing students with opportunities to select their own strategy supports their ability to  self-direct their learning and understand why strategies work. Skilled mathematical thinkers have a variety of problem-solving strategies in their toolbox and can access them quickly and efficiently. Students understand that the same strategy doesn't work for all problems and they can flexibly use the most effective strategy for each problem. 

The Victorian Curriculum emphasises the use of efficient mental and written strategies, and in fact encourages the use of multiple strategies before the traditional algorithm is taught. While the 'traditional' written algorithm should be taught, it is important that students understand why it works and what to do if it doesn't (like figuring out their mistakes!)

Below are some examples of strategies which are explored to solve multiplication problems: 

Skip Counting: Counting by multiples 

Arrays

Repeated Addition

Doubling and halving strategy: 

Box/table Method: 

Lattice strategy: