At our school, we believe that mathematics is more than just numbers and equations; it’s a way of thinking, problem-solving, and understanding the world around us. Our approach to teaching mathematics is designed to inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

How We Teach Mathematics

Our mathematics curriculum is aligned with the New Zealand Ministry of Education’s guidelines, ensuring that our teaching methods are both effective and engaging. We incorporate the “I do, We do, You do” model to guide our students through their learning journey:

1. I Do (Teacher-Led Instruction): Our teachers begin by demonstrating new mathematical concepts and skills. Using clear explanations and examples, they model the thought processes and strategies needed to understand and solve problems. This stage sets a strong foundation for students to build upon.

2. We Do (Guided Practice): Next, students and teachers work together to practice the new concepts. This collaborative phase allows students to ask questions, receive immediate feedback, and develop their understanding with the support of their peers and teacher. It’s a crucial step in reinforcing learning and building confidence.

3. You Do (Independent Practice): Finally, students apply what they’ve learned independently. This stage encourages them to take ownership of their learning, practice problem-solving on their own, and demonstrate their understanding. Teachers provide support as needed, ensuring that each student can succeed at their own pace.

Real-World Applications

Mathematics is all around us, and we strive to show students how it applies to their everyday lives. In our senior school classes, we weave maths skills into various subjects and activities, such as:

• Science Learning: Students use mathematical concepts to analyze data, understand scientific phenomena, and conduct experiments. This integration helps them see the practical applications of maths in understanding the natural world.

• EPro8: Our participation in the EPro8 Challenge allows students to apply their maths skills in engineering and problem-solving tasks. This hands-on experience fosters creativity and innovation.

• S.T.E.A.M. Learning: By incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, we provide a holistic learning experience. Students engage in projects that require them to use maths in designing, building, and testing their ideas.

Collaborative Learning

We encourage students to work together on mathematical problems, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This not only helps students learn from each other but also builds important social and communication skills.

Personalized Instruction

Every student learns at their own pace, and we tailor our teaching methods to meet individual needs. Through formative assessments and regular feedback, we ensure that each student receives the support they need to succeed.

Professional Development for Teachers

Our teachers are continually enhancing their skills through professional development opportunities. By staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in mathematics education, they are equipped to provide the highest quality instruction.

Our Commitment to Excellence

We are committed to providing a mathematics education that is both challenging and supportive. Our goal is to help every student develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, as well as the confidence to apply these skills in new and innovative ways.

By integrating high-impact teaching routines and fostering a growth mindset, we aim to create a learning environment where every student can thrive. We believe that with the right support and encouragement, all students can achieve excellence in mathematics.

Thank you for visiting our mathematics section. We invite you to explore the resources and information available on our website, and to join us in celebrating the joy of learning mathematics.

Outside School Opportunities

We encourage our students to participate in mathematics activities beyond the classroom to broaden their experiences and challenge themselves further. Here are some of the exciting opportunities available:

• MathsWell: This annual competition allows students to showcase their mathematical skills and compete against peers from other schools. It’s a great opportunity for students to challenge themselves and celebrate their love for mathematics.

• Otago Maths: The Otago Mathematics Problem Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages students to solve complex mathematical problems. Participation in this challenge helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• CAMS (Canterbury Mathematical Association Competitions): These competitions provide a platform for students to test their mathematical abilities and compete at a high level. It’s an excellent way for students to gain recognition for their skills and hard work.