How is maths taught now?

[NickAngel]

Can anyone please point me in right direction on web or a book that shows how maths is taught now.
I suspect it's changed since I was at primary school and I want to be able to support my DC by using same words and techniques they will use in school.
Do they get marks for showing their working-out in the SATS?

[SawdustInMyHair]

Mathematics Explained for Primary Teachers (by Haylock) is very good. SATs revision guides only really help if you already have a vague idea what you're doing!

The other thing would be to get hold of the school's calculation policy - they should have one - as that'll be more specific as to what methods they use.

Children should try to show their working out as it shows the teacher what their thought process is (they might have the right method but have made a small mistake), and it helps to consolidate their learning by showing themselves what they're doing.

I wouldn't worry too much about SATs grades to be honest, in most areas now they're only a small part of the picture for secondary schools setting/predicting, but the grade shouldn't be something your child worries about. If you are worried, check with prospective secondaries how much they care about it just in case.

This school has good videos for parents, but it might be different to your DCs school: www.eleanorpalmer.camden.sch.uk/curriculum-and-ethos/maths-for-parents/

[ArmchairTraveller]

'Do they get marks for showing their working-out in the SATS?'

If the method they choose is correct but their arithmetic lets them down, they can get a point. Get the right answer, it's two points.

[Sallyhasleftthebuilding]

There are different methods for each sum - knowing different methods is a good thing - however this is where the working out come in - as pp said it shows the thought process -

So 3 X 5 for example

Do they know the answer - or are the doing repeat addition? Or counted on their fingers or used equipment?

All getting the answer right - but each process at a different level IYSWIM

[ArmchairTraveller]

'There are different methods for each sum '

Except you can't call them sums unless it's an addition. Otherwise it's a calculation. The book that's been recommended is a good start.

[Sallyhasleftthebuilding]

Oxford dictionary disagrees - but thanks for that -

[ArmchairTraveller]

You think the government education rabble have bothered to check whether their decrees match logic or the OED?
Current diktat is that it's a calculation unless it's an addition.
But wait a year or so...

[ArmchairTraveller]

[Obs2016]

Very helpful to know what methods are being used to teach maths.