In Year 5 we are always working on ways to further develop each of our students in every subject area. This always starts with analysis of specific skills within a curriculum area. Mathematics has a very broad focus of study and through pre skills testing we often find mathematical strands in need of further development and support. There are two areas we would like to focus on over the coming weeks Mental Arithmetic and Test based questions.
An essential part of mathematics is the ability to process and solve problems mentally with accuracy. These questions will often involve time constraints and range across a number mathematical strands. I have placed below some examples to work through. There are 10 questions that can be covered daily and should take no longer than 5 minutes to solve. Some questions may be new learning and require a discussion after the task is complete.
We currently complete an end of term assessment task that reviews the strand areas we have covered in mathematics. Often we know our students understand a topic but become confused when it is set out in a SAT’s (Year 6 attainment tests completed in the UK) style. We need to work on these as a year group to build confidence and the ability to decipher the steps needed when completing this style of test question. I have placed some examples below to work on and will continue to do so in the coming weeks to help develop this skill.
