Numeracy

“It is better to solve one problem five different ways than to solve five different problems”.  George Polya 1965

Mathematics has developed into a sophisticated, complex body of knowledge that pervades all aspects of our lives. It has applications in all human activities and everyday situations. Competence in Mathematics enhances our understanding of the world and the quality of our participation in society.

The Mathematics Curriculum at St. Finbar’s is an important and integral part of the total school program. It aims to enhance the mathematical experiences and guide students through the various developmental stages so they are equipped with competent and flexible numeracy skills.

St Finbar’s aims to challenge all students in Mathematics by providing tasks that engage all students.  Students are encouraged to work together to discuss and to share these ideas with each other and solve real life problems using a variety of hands-on materials.

St Finbar’s follows the curriculum as outlined by the Victorian Curriculum.

The Content areas covered (The What) are:

• Number and Algebra
• Measurement and Geometry
• Statistics and Probability

These content areas are taught via the Proficiencies (The How):

• Fluency (automatic recall of numeracy facts, proper use of tools etc)
• Reasoning (answering why,explaining and justifying their thinking)
• Problem Solving (using different strategies to solve real life problems)
• Understanding (making connections, describing and interpreting problems)

Students are encouraged to ‘have a go’ at all problems and that making mistakes are okay.  Mistakes are a way to learn!