Numeracy

Numeracy at Hartwell PS is taught in a way that is positive, engaging, challenging and linked to real-life. Students explore the FOUR PROFICIENCIES of Understanding, Fluency, Problem-solving and Reasoning in the key areas of Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry and Statistics and Probability.

Click here for more information on the four proficiencies.

Mathematical concepts are progressively developed throughout the school. In the junior school, the focus is on teaching the foundation skills to set the students up for success in their Numeracy learning. Students are given multiple exposures to key concepts ensuring a thorough understanding. Moving into the middle school, the focus is on broadening and extending the understanding of key concepts. Foundation understandings will be revisited and extended upon according to the needs of the students. Applying concepts previously learned, problem solving and further extension is the focus in the senior years. The use of concrete materials is integral in teaching Numeracy across the school.

Lessons are planned, using the Hartwell Instructional Model, with the individual needs of the students the highest priority. Teachers follow a research-based sequence of teaching the understandings and skills, aligning each lesson to the Victorian Curriculum. Teachers use a range of formal and informal assessment methods to inform their teaching to ensure the individual needs of students are catered for. Numeracy lessons are differentiated and structured according to the purpose and key learning intention of the lesson. Observing a Numeracy lesson at Hartwell, you would expect to see;

• Teachers working with a focus group for targeted teaching
• Students participating in hands-on activities using a range of concrete materials
• Language-rich classrooms involving students talking, listening, explaining and reflecting on their understanding of concepts
• Displays of Mathematical language and vocabulary
• A range of group dynamics, including students working with a partner, in a small group or thinking individually
• Teachers presenting lessons in a variety of ways, including teacher teaming

Each year, Hartwell PS is very proud to enter multiple teams from the senior school in the Maths Olympiad. The Maths Olympiad is a Mathematical-based challenge that requires students to extend their mathematical understanding through explicit teaching and problem solving situations.