Maths - No Problem! (MNP)

What is Maths – No Problem! (from MNP):

• Practical, Hands-On Learning: We will use a variety of equipment (e.g., cubes, ten frames, number discs) to explore word problems. A key piece of research underpinning this approach is Jerome Bruner’s CPA approach, which identifies three stages of learning: Concrete objects, Pictorial representations, and Abstract thought (CPA). Children can find maths difficult because it is abstract, but the CPA approach introduces abstract mathematical concepts in a concrete and tangible way.

• Accessible and Challenging for All: Tasks are designed to be accessible to all learners. The whole class will learn the content together, with built-in extension opportunities for advanced learners to deepen their understanding and be continually challenged in every lesson.

• Carefully Sequenced Lessons: Each lesson builds on the previous one, creating small, manageable steps to build mastery, conceptual understanding, and confidence.

• Consistent Lesson Structure: Lessons are designed to be taught in 60 minutes. Whole-class teaching ensures your child receives a full hour of teacher-led maths instruction every lesson.

• Collaborative and Independent Learning: Every lesson includes opportunities for students to work both collaboratively and independently. Collaborative activities help develop your child’s ability to communicate their mathematical thinking and expand their ideas through discussion. Independent tasks allow your child to consolidate and apply the concepts they have learned.

• Critical Thinking Through Multiple Methods: We will encourage children to use a range of methods to demonstrate their understanding of concepts. Using multiple representations helps students see the relationships between mathematical ideas and strengthens their critical thinking skills.

• Enrichment for Advanced Learners: Rather than simply providing more of the same work, we aim to enrich advanced learners' understanding by offering opportunities to explore concepts in greater depth. Enrichment activities are built into every lesson and are an expectation for all students.

• Research-Informed Problems: Maths problems are carefully selected and varied to challenge and extend students’ understanding as the lesson progresses. This thoughtful sequencing provides a strong foundation for future learning.

• Curriculum-Aligned and Beyond: All mathematical concepts are covered in depth, including number, geometry, and statistics. The programme meets all the requirements of the New Zealand Curriculum, with opportunities to extend learning beyond these requirements across all year levels.