Leading the Mathematics Department Forward


Mathematics is:

The study of Art, Nature, Music, Philosophy, Poetry and Love

unknown 16th century


Mathematics is a creative discipline. The language of mathematics is international. The subject transcends cultural boundaries and its importance is universally recognised. Mathematics has developed over time as a means of solving problems and also for its own sake. Mathematics can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder when pupils solve a problem for the first time, discover a more elegant solution, or notice hidden connections. Pupils develop their knowledge and understanding of mathematics through practical activities, exploration and discussion, learning to talk about their methods and explain their reasoning. They tackle problems through a range of methods, using increasingly complex mathematical language and reasoning. As they progress, they learn to appreciate the unique power of mathematics as an analytical tool for solving problems.    (QCA)

 

What is Mathematics - Developing a Vision, this links to an excellent article discussing the nature and purpose of Mathematics.
 

Departmental Workshops

The National Centre has commissioned a series of 27 workshops which have been written to provide your mathematics team with structured professional development you can deliver in-house utilizing all members' expertise and knowledge. The 27 modules cover a wide range of topics that teachers have traditional found difficult to teach in an imaginative way. They believe 3 – 6 modules per year could be an ideal balance. Click here

 

SuffolkMaths has some information to support Heads of Department in their role which can be accessed below
 

Schemes of Work

Policy Documents

Pupil Tracking & Exam Analysis

Maths Processes & Applications

 

Other useful sites:
 

http://nationalstrategies.standards.dcsf.gov.uk/secondary/mathematics

http://www.emaths.co.uk/teach.htm
http://www.lancsngfl.ac.uk/curriculum/math/index.php? category_id=82

http://www.kangaroomaths.com/pouch.htm

Self Evaluation Grid for Middle Leaders - Click here