Mathematics

Maths problem of the fortnight

Regularly engaging in Maths with your child has proven to have a positive impact on student outcomes. Engaging in a problem-solving, working through strategies and solutions, supports your child's thinking, engagement, and genuine love of Maths.

Problem #1

Look at a calendar. Draw a square around 9 numbers. What do you notice? 

Prompt: If I tell you the top left number, can you tell me the bottom right number? 

If I tell you the middle number, what can you tell me? 

What if the figure changes to a rectangle? A cross?

Problem #2

Some people claim rolling a six is harder than rolling a two. Roll a dice many times, collecting and recording your data. Make a convincing argument using your data. Extend the idea to a 10-sided dice or rolling two dice and finding the sum. 

Game of the fortnight 

'5 in a row' - watch the video for the full instructions! 

Concepts explored: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division 

Equipment: deck of cards, paper and pencil.

Questions which could be used during the game: Why did you choose to cross out....? What didn't you make.....? What would you do differently the next time you played? 

Spotlight on Maths Learning

The term has begun with a buzz of learning in Maths. Students in Year 1/2 have explored recognising and describing one-half, one-quarter, and one eighth. They were thoroughly engaged in becoming a 'fraction chef' for the day, designing their ultimate pizza with ingredients as fractions. This might open a new conversation starter the next time the family orders pizza!