Mindset Maths is an approach to Maths teaching and learning by Professor Jo Boaler from Stanford University. The three key ideas around Mindset Maths are:

1. Anyone can learn Maths to high levels
2. Mistakes and struggle are good for brain growth and brain strengthening
3. Visual mathematics helps brain connections and is really important for students’ learning of mathematics

MATHS ANXIETY

Maths anxiety severely impacts students’ achievement and engagement in Maths and is the major reason why so many high achieving students not only leave Maths but also the numerous STEM courses that require Mathematics.

Research evidence is clear about what the most ineffective classroom practices in the Maths classroom are:

• Timed tests
• Speed pressure
• Procedural teaching
• Ability grouping

Research evidence is also clear about what the most effective classroom practices in the Maths classroom are:

• Providing tasks that encourage multiple methods, pathways and representations
• Providing tasks that value depth, not speed
• Providing tasks that allow all learners to contribute to the learning and have room for extension
• Making opportunities for students to authentically share their thinking with their peers and teachers
• Adding a visual component to Maths tasks and how students demonstrate their thinking
• The environment is filled with wonder and curiosity
• Students feel confident in taking risks and see mistakes as an opportunity to learn

The Mindset Maths program at Living Faith features these effective classroom practices in many ways. Over Term 2, we will share with you the various component of our Maths program and how they contribute to optimal student learning, engagement and achievement.

- Rebecca McConnell, Director of Learning and Innovation